India Reports Sharp Rise in Non-Communicable Diseases Driven by U...

A nationwide study conducted by the Indian Council of Medical Research across 24 states confirmed that non-communicable diseases — including type 2 diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular disease, and chronic respiratory disease — now account for 67% of all deaths in India, up from 53% a decade ago. Urban areas showed a significantly higher NCD burden than rural areas, with three times the prevalence of hypertension and double the rate of metabolic syndrome. Sedentary work culture, ultra-processed food consumption, and chronic sleep deprivation were identified as the three primary drivers. The National Programme for Prevention and Control of NCDs, launched in 2013, has been substantially restructured with an added focus on workplace wellness mandates for companies employing more than 500 people. The ICMR report recommends making blood pressure and blood glucose screening free and mandatory at every outpatient visit in government hospitals.