Diabetes Crisis in India: Alarming Apollo Study Findings
Diabetes is becoming a significant health issue in India, with a study conducted by Apollo Health of the Nation (HON) highlighting alarming statistics. Out of over 4.5 lakh individuals screened, 1 in 4 adults was found to be diabetic, while 1 in 3 was pre-diabetic. This indicates that nearly 60% of adults are experiencing some level of impaired glucose metabolism, a concerning trend that demands immediate attention.
The age-wise breakdown of the data reveals a steep rise in diabetes risk after the age of 40. Among individuals under 40, only 7% were diabetic. However, this figure jumps to 26% for those aged between 40 and 55, and it escalates to 44% for individuals over 55. Furthermore, a significant third of those under 40 were already pre-diabetic, suggesting that metabolic changes can begin silently years before diabetes manifests.
Dr. NK Narayanan, an expert at Apollo Hospitals, notes that menopause introduces additional challenges for women. As estrogen levels drop, women face difficulties in processing fats and sugars, leading to weight gain and increased insulin resistance. This combination significantly raises their risk of developing diabetes post-menopause, with HON statistics indicating a risk increase between 14% and 40% for women in this age group.
These findings highlight the importance of regular blood sugar checks for women in their 40s and 50s. Early detection, along with routine health screenings, can empower women to manage their health better, especially concerning heart health and bone density, both of which can be adversely affected by metabolic changes due to menopause.
Fortunately, type 2 diabetes can be managed effectively through early intervention. Research shows that weight loss is the only proven method to achieve remission in type 2 diabetes. For those in the early stages, especially if overweight, losing 15% of their baseline body weight can lead to significant improvements in blood sugar levels, reducing long-term risks.
Apollo’s AI-driven health check program, ProHealth, aims to identify early metabolic risks and guide individuals on scientifically backed steps to reverse these issues. For India to effectively combat the diabetes epidemic, the focus must shift from treatment to early detection and prevention. Screening should be prioritized, particularly for individuals with obesity, sedentary lifestyles, or a family history of diabetes.
