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The rising incidence of diabetes in India has been a concern for sometime now. The country is known to be the diabetes’ capital for the past decade.
Diabetes’ affects are not limited to an individuals lifestyle only. It can further manifests several life-threatening diseases. Heart conditions, hypertension and obesity are a few ailments related to the disease.
Experts have warned about the link between diabetes and increasing heart attacks in the country. Moreover, various research has also proven the direct or indirect association of diabetes with increased blood pressure. Hence, undoubtedly, diabetes poses a bigger risk to the human health than seen in the past.
How to tackle the rising incidence of diabetes in the country?
In a recent press conference, Nihal Thomas, senior professor, department of endocrinology, diabetes and metabolism, Christian Medical College, Vellore, discussed two recent breakthroughs for tackling diabetes. He pointed out the importance of diet in tackling the epidemic of diabetes.
He said that foods high in carbohydrates are much cheaper than food with high protein. The need of the hour is for policy makers to step in and make changes in the prices of food products. Prof Thomas said, “Foods like fish, fruits and vegetables are more expensive, making this a social determinant in the rise of cases of diabetes. We have to find ways to cultivate healthier food and maybe provide them through government schemes to make them more affordable and accessible.”
How does diabetes affect overall health?
Diabetes is a condition when the hormone secreted by pancreas, called insulin, is disturbed in the body. This imbalance of insulin further disturbs the blood sugar level and results in variety of problems. The condition is divided into two categories, type 1 and type 2 diabetes. The main difference between the two is the target audience. While type 2 diabetes target people above 40 years, type 1 diabetes commonly seen among children.
However, research has shown prevalence of type 2 diabetes has also increased among children.
Experts warned diabetes is a prolonged condition that damages blood vessels in the heart, eyes, kidneys and nerves. World Health Organization (WHO) has also stated that patients with diabetes are at a higher risk of suffering with heart attack, stroke and kidney failure.
Prof Thomas highlighted that currently, around 53 crore people are suffering with diabetes. Looking at the rising trend, by 2050, this number will increase to 130 crore. These numbers are rising exponentially in South Asia, including in India.
He has also stressed that half of the patients suffering from diabetes will inclined towards obesity as well. He also pointed that rising condition among females is also alarming.
Hence, public awareness, policy changes and innovations in treatment must be focused to tackle the diabetes challenges in India
