Covid influence: India's diabetic population skyrockets to 101 million

• A recent study by the ICMR reveals a drastic increase in the prevalence of diabetes in India, with an estimated 101 million diabetic individuals compared to 74 million four years ago
• The study also highlights high prevalence rates of pre-diabetes, hypertension, obesity, abdominal obesity, and dyslipidemia in the country.
• Urgent policy changes and investment in chronic disease management are required to address the growing burden of diabetes and related non-communicable diseases in India

A recent study conducted by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has revealed a significant increase in the prevalence of diabetes in India. The study estimates that the number of diabetic individuals in the country has risen to 101 million, compared to 74 million four years ago. The study also highlighted high prevalence rates of pre-diabetes, hypertension, obesity, abdominal obesity, and dyslipidemia.

The study, known as the ICMR-INDIAB study, is the largest nationally representative population-based study on diabetes and metabolic non-communicable diseases. It covered all 28 states, two union territories, and the National Capital Territory of Delhi. The prevalence of diabetes and pre-diabetes was found to be highest in Goa, followed by Puducherry, Kerala, Chandigarh, and Delhi.

Public health experts have expressed concerns over the findings and called for urgent policy changes. They recommend lifestyle modifications, dietary changes, and primary prevention strategies to control the risk factors associated with diabetes and other chronic diseases. There is a growing need for investment in a dedicated department for chronic diseases and a major mission under the Prime Minister's Office to address this issue effectively.

The study also highlighted the need for research on the reversibility of diabetes and emphasized the economic burden posed by the increasing prevalence of metabolic non-communicable diseases in terms of healthcare costs and complications.

The COVID-19 pandemic may have indirectly contributed to the increase in diabetes cases through lifestyle changes and stress levels. However, the direct impact of the virus on diabetes is still under debate.

Overall, the study's results underscore the urgent need for preventive measures and awareness campaigns to tackle the rising burden of diabetes in India. Lifestyle modifications and proper eating habits are crucial in preventing and managing diabetes, which can have significant long-term health and economic implications.