Apollo Hospital has recently released its annual Health of the Nation Report, which delves into the prevalence and growth of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in India. The report highlights the importance of taking preventive healthcare measures to ensure that the country stays healthy. According to Dr Prathap Reddy, the chairman of the Apollo Hospitals group, NCDs have become the leading cause of death and suffering in India over the past three decades. They contribute to 65% of deaths in the country and affect not just health but also productivity and economic growth. By 2030, it is estimated that the economic burden on India will be about $4.8 trillion.
Dr Reddy emphasised that preventive healthcare needs to become a national priority. He believes that the health of the nation is a critical indicator of the future, and the health of the people will determine how effectively India lives up to its full potential. To minimise the impact of NCDs, he called for a proactive and highly defined strategy, with prevention being the best solution.
The rise in preventive screenings has led to an increase in the diagnosis of early risk factors like obesity and dyslipidemia (cholesterol irregularities) among Indians across all age groups. These are indications of the potential onset of chronic conditions like diabetes and hypertension, and they serve as a wake-up call for individuals to make early shifts in their lifestyle behaviours. Dr Reddy also noted that there is a rise in the prevalence of conditions like diabetes and hypertension.
In conclusion, Apollo Hospital’s Health of the Nation Report highlights the need for preventive healthcare measures to combat the growing prevalence of non-communicable diseases in India. With a proactive and highly defined strategy, individuals can make early shifts in their lifestyle behaviours to minimise the impact of NCDs. The health of the nation is a critical indicator of the future, and it is essential to prioritise preventive healthcare to ensure that India stays healthy and lives up to its full potential.
