Urban lifestyle choices—including smoking, alcohol consumption, sedentary habits, and poor diet—are major contributors to the rising incidence of chronic diseases such as obesity, type 2 diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular disease, and cancer. These lifestyle diseases have increasingly become common health challenges, often adopted as social or cultural norms.
According to the International Diabetes Federation, India reported approximately 72.9 million diabetes cases in 2017. By 2025, it is estimated that nearly 75% of the world’s 300 million adults with diabetes will be in non-industrialized countries, with India and China accounting for almost one-third of these cases. Research from Harvard TH Chan School of Public Health highlights that diabetes and hypertension are prevalent among middle-aged and elderly individuals across diverse regions and socio-demographic groups in India. The prevalence of diabetes is nearly equal in men (6.5%) and women (6.1%), while hypertension is more common in men (25%) compared to women (20%).
Key Factors Driving the Increase:
Climate and Pollution: Indian cities are among the most polluted globally, with seven of the world’s top ten most polluted cities located in India. Fine particulate matter (PM 2.5), a major pollutant, is strongly linked to increased risks of diabetes, cardiovascular, pulmonary, kidney, and other non-communicable diseases. Studies estimate that millions of diabetes cases and deaths globally can be attributed to PM 2.5 exposure. Additionally, polluted air elevates stress hormone levels, exacerbating health risks.
Workplace Stress: Stressful work environments contribute significantly to lifestyle disorders. High pressure, long working hours, lack of sleep, and poor nutrition create a combination that increases the risk of diabetes and hypertension, particularly among middle-aged men.
Pregnancy Concerns: Stress and diabetes during pregnancy can lead to severe complications including premature birth, low birth weight, preeclampsia, and long-term health issues for both mother and child. Managing stress and blood sugar levels is crucial for maternal and fetal health.
Path to Healing:
The key to combating lifestyle diseases lies in natural healing approaches. Meditation, Ayurveda, and natural medicines, alongside healthy dietary habits, can support the body’s healing processes. While allopathic treatments address symptoms, integrating plant-based diets and natural remedies helps cultivate healthier lifestyles and prevent chronic diseases.
By RAJAT TREHAN, Clinical Nutritionist, Health, Wellness, and Fitness Specialist.
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