Apollo Hospitals unveiled their Health of Nation Report, shedding light on a concerning surge in non-communicable diseases (NCDs) sweeping across India. The report’s findings painted a stark picture of the nation’s health landscape, with cancer cases particularly on the rise, earning India the unfortunate byname of the “cancer capital of the world.”
In India, breast cancer, cervix cancer, and ovarian cancer top the list of most prevalent cancers among women, while lung cancer, mouth cancer, and prostate cancer are the leading types among men. Surprisingly, the median age for cancer diagnosis in India is lower compared to other nations.
Published on World Health Day 2024, the report highlighted alarming statistics, revealing that one in three Indians is at risk of developing diabetes, while two in three face pre-hyper tensions, and one in ten struggles with depression. What’s even more troubling is the trend of NCDs appearing at younger ages, indicating a looming healthcare crisis globally.
Amidst these sobering statistics, the report emphasized the crucial role of regular health screenings in mitigating the risks associated with NCDs, especially cardiovascular ailments. While there’s a glimmer of hope in the increasing awareness of health and wellness, underscored by a positive trend towards comprehensive screenings, immediate action is imperative to address this growing epidemic.
The unfolding healthcare crisis in India specifies on the rising spread of severe diseases among its youth, notably cancer. Disturbingly, younger individuals often present with aggressive cancer symptoms diagnosed at advanced stages, not solely due to delayed checkup. Lifestyle factors like sedentary jobs, inadequate physical activity, and poor dietary habits emerge as key culprits. Moreover, genetic tendencies and environmental influences play significant roles in the escalating occurrence of cancer among the nation’s youth.
It’s evident that India’s health landscape is at a critical point, and united efforts are needed to combat the rising tide of NCDs. From diabetes to hypertension and obesity, tackling these issues requires a multi-faceted approach, with a focus on prevention, early detection, and intervention.
