JOIN USThe findings of a survey conducted jointly by the Public Health Association of India and a non-profit body on the health status of Indians in towns and cities should cause serious concern. The survey, which was conducted in 22 urban centres over two years, has found that the incidence of life style diseases, especially heart ailments and diabetes, is fast increasing among the people.
It found that 74 per cent of urban Indians are prone to cardiovascular diseases. Men are more prone than women, but the survey found that 72 per cent of women in the 40-44 age group and 57 per cent of them in the 30-34 age group are at risk. The number of deaths related to cardiovascular problems are projected to more than double from 11,75,000 in 1990 to 25,84,000 in 2020, and most of them will be in productive age group of 30-44.
Diabetes also is much more common now than in the past. Chennai leads the country with 17 out of 100 people suffering from diabetes and Bangalore and Hyderabad are close behind with 16 per cent. Fifty-nine per cent of people in 30-44 age group have high risk levels of cholesterol.
What is of greater concern is that the population at risk is shifting from the 40 plus age group to the 30 plus group. The World Health Organisation has warned that India will be among the countries with the highest incidence of life style diseases in the near future. It is already the diabetes capital and may soon lead the world in all life style disorders. All Indian cities are in the danger zone. Depression and anxiety-related problems are also increasing. All these will lead to high health expenditure and loss of productivity of the younger population in the coming years.
These are not infectious diseases but are caused by changing life styles and neglect of and lack of opportunities for a healthy regimen. Irregular work timings and reduced physical activity make young people vulnerable to diseases. Eating of unhealthy junk food, which is fast rising, and habits like consumption of tobacco and alcohol are other risk factors.
Junk food has little nutrition value, increases heart problems and causes obesity. The daily diet of urban families now comprises lower amounts of whole grains, vegetables and fruits. There should be better public education and strategies to counter the dangers of following a sedentary life style and unhealthy habits.