India is facing a major health challenge. Deaths from chronic diseases in India are rising fast, and women are affected the most. Between 2010 and 2019, many countries saw fewer deaths from non-communicable diseases (NCDs). But in India, the numbers went up—especially from heart disease and diabetes.
This rise shows gaps in prevention, awareness, early checks, and access to care. Women, rural communities, and low-income groups are most at risk. Here’s what the study found, why the problem is growing, and what India can do to respond.
Key Findings on Chronic Diseases in India
- The risk of dying from chronic diseases before age 80 increased in both men and women.
- Women saw a sharper rise compared to men.
- Heart disease and diabetes caused the most deaths.
- Other causes included chronic kidney disease, cancers, and mental health-related illnesses.
- Women over 40 and men over 55 were most affected.
This shows that middle-aged and older people are especially vulnerable.
Why Chronic Diseases Are Rising in India
Several factors are driving this increase:
- Lifestyle changes – Sedentary habits, poor diets, obesity, and more processed food intake.
- Urbanization and pollution – Stressful city life, bad air quality, and fast food culture.
- Limited healthcare access – Many women and rural groups lack preventive checks and proper diagnosis.
- Aging population – Healthcare systems are not fully prepared for age-related diseases.
Tackling Chronic Diseases in India
Experts suggest a multi-step approach:
1. Prevention and Awareness
- Public campaigns promoting healthy eating, exercise, and less tobacco and alcohol use.
- Community-level health programs, especially for women and rural groups.
2. Early Diagnosis and Screening
- Affordable and accessible diagnostic centres.
- Regular checks for blood pressure, diabetes, cancer, and kidney health.
3. Healthcare for Women
- Close gender gaps in healthcare.
- Create awareness campaigns focused on women’s specific health risks.
4. Policy and Infrastructure
- More funding for NCD programs.
- Train primary care workers to detect and manage chronic diseases early.
- Integrate NCD care into public health schemes.
5. Ayurveda for Chronic Care
- Ayurveda can support modern care by targeting root causes instead of only symptoms.
- Ayurvedic treatments often have fewer side effects.
- This approach can bring holistic and preventive care into the system.
Also Read- Study Warns on Overuse of Antibiotics in Treating Cough
Conclusion
The rise in chronic diseases in India is a wake-up call. Women carry a heavier burden, and the country is shifting from infectious to lifestyle-related diseases. To respond, India needs stronger prevention, early diagnosis, fair access to care, and lifestyle changes. By combining modern medicine with Ayurveda’s holistic wisdom, India can build a healthier and more sustainable future.
About The Author
