India still faces challenges like malnutrition and diseases. The country is also seeing more non-communicable diseases (NCDs). These diseases come from lifestyle and environmental changes, not infections.
NCDs have increased health loss in India and worldwide. In India, NCDs have risen by more than 50%. They are caused by things like smoking, high blood pressure, and unhealthy eating.
This article talks about the 10 biggest health issues today.
What are Health Issues?
India has many people with chronic health problems due to its large population. Health issues happen when our body’s normal functions are affected. This can be from lifestyle, diseases, or pollution.
Most critically ill patients are under 60. Factors like processed food, tobacco, and pollution affect the young.
- Consumption of processed food
- Excessive use of tobacco and alcohol
- Sedentary lifestyle
- Stress
- Pollution
- Expensive medical care
Top 10 Rising Health Problems in India
India’s growth, urbanisation, and pollution lead to health issues. Here are the top 10 health problems:
Obesity
Obesity is a big problem in India. It means having too much fat in the body. Visceral obesity is very dangerous.
Many kids and adults have high BMI and body fat. Lack of outdoor play, junk food, and sitting all day are the reasons. Over 30% of Indian kids are obese.
Cardiovascular Diseases
Cardiovascular diseases are common and deadly in India. They affect the heart and blood vessels, leading to heart attacks. Most cases are due to artery blockage.
Most heart conditions are preventable with a healthy diet and lifestyle.
Cancer
Cancer is the second biggest disease in India, causing 70% of deaths between 30 and 69 years old. Common cancers include oral, breast, lung, stomach, and cervical.
Early diagnosis and a healthy lifestyle can prevent and treat cancer. But late diagnosis worsens treatment outcomes, leading to many deaths.
Chronic Respiratory Diseases
Air pollution, smoking, and poor living conditions are causing respiratory diseases like COPD, Pneumonia, and bronchitis. These diseases are deadly for children and the elderly.
Diabetes
India has the highest diabetes rates in the world. It’s caused by high blood sugar levels. Diabetes leads to heart disease, kidney disease, and vision problems.
Diabetes is often called the ‘silent killer’ because it has no symptoms early on. Diabetes is now a big concern in children as young as 12 due to unhealthy habits.
Hypertension
Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is a major concern in India. It’s a leading cause of stroke and heart attacks. High blood pressure can also lead to disability or brain damage.
It’s caused by a lack of exercise and unhealthy habits.
Chronic Kidney Disease
Chronic kidney disease is caused by many health issues like obesity, high blood pressure, and diabetes. It slowly leads to kidney failure over time. Symptoms include feeling very tired, swelling in the ankles, losing appetite, and skin problems. These symptoms often don’t show up early on.
Reproductive Health Issues
Women in India are facing more reproductive health problems. One in five women has such issues. Changes in lifestyle, stress, and the pressure of work and family life have led to more cases of hormonal imbalances, menstrual problems, PCOS, PCOD, and infertility.
Mental Health Issues
Mental health disorders like depression, anxiety, and substance abuse are on the rise in India. Social and cultural factors and lack of mental healthcare access contribute to this increase. Efforts to address these issues and improve healthcare access can help reduce stigma and improve care.
Community Health Problems
Malnutrition, neonatal disorders, and infectious diseases like diarrhoea and tuberculosis are common in rural India and low-income areas. Government health programs are working to address these issues, but more is needed.
Managing Major Health Issues with Health Insurance
Many health issues can be prevented, treated, and reversed with proper care. But, the costs of treatment for lifestyle diseases are high. That’s why it’s important to have comprehensive health insurance. A right health insurance policy can help with the financial burden of medical treatment.
Did you know that Care Health Insurance covers major illnesses, heart conditions, and pre-existing conditions? They also offer wellness benefits to manage lifestyle diseases. Plans like Care Supreme and Care Super Mediclaim provide comprehensive coverage. Care Health Insurance has plans tailored to your needs and budget. Talk to our experts to learn more about our products and coverage.
