Experts Attribute India’s Increasing Disease Trend to Lifestyle Choices

The health of the nation is at risk as experts point to increased stress, sedentary lifestyles, and unhealthy habits as the leading causes of surging disease cases in India. According to recent studies, around one in three Indians is pre-diabetic, two in three are pre-hypertensive, and one in 10 suffers from depression. The prevalence of non-communicable diseases like cancer, diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular diseases, and mental health disorders has reached critical levels, especially among the younger population.

Dr. Sajjan Rajpurohit, Senior Director of Oncology at Max Super Specialty Hospital, highlighted the shift in dietary habits as a major contributing factor to the rise in diseases. Instead of consuming traditional healthy foods like fruits and vegetables, people are opting for processed foods high in sugar, unhealthy fats, and salt. This, combined with a sedentary lifestyle and increased consumption of junk food, tobacco, and alcohol, has created a perfect storm for disease development.

The altered lifestyle, characterized by long and unregulated working hours and lack of physical activity, is making the younger generation more prone to obesity, diabetes, and hypertension. Genetic factors also play a significant role in the development of heart diseases, with 60-70% of cardiovascular problems like heart attacks attributed to hereditary factors. Understanding the relationship between genetics and heart disease is crucial in identifying at-risk patients and developing targeted prevention and treatment strategies.

Dr. Rajpurohit emphasized the importance of regular health screenings in identifying underlying issues and catching signs before complications increase. Screening tests can detect certain conditions at early stages, allowing for early treatment initiation. This is particularly important for genetic diseases that pass from one generation to the next, as early detection can help manage the condition effectively.

In addition to genetic factors, unhealthy habits like smoking contribute to the development of cancer and other diseases. While we cannot change our genetic makeup, making positive lifestyle choices and undergoing regular health screenings can lower the risk of developing these conditions. Dr. Rajpurohit stressed the need for educating people about healthy eating and exercise, improving healthcare accessibility, and addressing environmental hazards to combat the rising disease burden in India.

Experts emphasize the importance of health screenings not only in eradicating diseases but also as a guide for timely treatment. Regular screenings can help identify underlying issues that have not yet manifested as symptoms and catch signs before complications worsen. By scheduling regular screening tests as recommended by healthcare providers, individuals can avoid emergencies and address emerging health issues before they require emergency treatment.

In conclusion, the rising cases of diseases in India can be attributed to a combination of factors, including increased stress, sedentary lifestyles, unhealthy dietary habits, and genetic predisposition. Regular health screenings play a crucial role in early detection and timely treatment of conditions, ultimately reducing the burden of disease on the nation’s health. It is essential for individuals to prioritize their health by adopting healthy lifestyle choices and undergoing regular screenings to prevent and manage diseases effectively.