Why There Is A Sudden Spike In All Non Communicable Diseases Like Hypertension, Chronic Respiratory Illnesses And Cardiovascular Diseases? Expert Insights

Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular diseases, cancer, and chronic respiratory illnesses are becoming alarmingly prevalent in India. These conditions, once considered diseases of affluence, now affect millions across both urban and rural populations. Recent studies indicate that NCDs are responsible for nearly 60% of all deaths in India—a staggering figure that highlights the growing crisis. Moreover, they account for 35–40% of all hospitalizations, placing a tremendous strain on the country’s already overburdened healthcare infrastructure. In a conversation with Jagran English, Dr. Manisha Arora, Director - Internal Medicine at the CK Birla Hospital, Delhi, talked about Why There Is A Sudden Spike In All Non-Communicable Diseases Like Hypertension, Chronic Respiratory Illnesses, And Cardiovascular Diseases?

According to Dr. Manisha Arora, the economic burden of NCDs is equally concerning, with estimates suggesting costs surpassing $1.5 trillion annually. For instance, deaths attributable to diabetes alone have risen sharply—from 38% in 1990 to 61.8% in 2016—demonstrating a clear upward trend. Among all NCDs, cardiovascular disease stands out as the leading contributor to mortality and hospital admissions.

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The reasons behind this surge in NCDs are multifaceted. Lifestyle factors such as unhealthy diets rich in processed foods, lack of physical activity, tobacco use, and excessive alcohol consumption play a major role. Worryingly, there is now a noticeable rural-urban shift, with rural areas witnessing a sharp increase in NCD cases—dispelling the notion that these are problems limited to urban settings.

Finally, Dr. Manisha Arora, Director - Internal Medicine at the CK Birla Hospital, Delhi, said that this rapid rise in NCDs is overwhelming the healthcare system, leading to long waiting times, limited access to quality treatment, and poor health outcomes. To address this growing challenge, a comprehensive strategy is essential. Public awareness and education around risk factors must be intensified. Access to healthcare services, especially in underserved rural regions, needs to be strengthened. Most importantly, preventive healthcare must take center stage—promoting regular physical activity, nutritious diets, and stress management to curb the tide of NCDs and safeguard future generations.