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A comprehensive survey conducted by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has revealed alarming rates of non-communicable metabolic diseases across various Indian states. The findings underscore the urgent need for targeted public health interventions to address this burgeoning health crisis.
The survey, known as the ICMR-India Diabetes Study, encompassed a vast demographic, including 28 Indian states, two union territories, and the National Capital Territory of Delhi. Over a span of more than a decade, from October 2008 to December 2020, a staggering 113,043 individuals aged 20 and above participated, providing crucial data for analysis.
Diabetes, prediabetes, dysglycemia, hypertension, obesity (both generalized and abdominal), and dyslipidemia were among the conditions studied. Using internationally recognized diagnostic criteria, the survey illuminated the prevalence of these diseases across urban and rural populations, as well as highlighting disparities between genders and geographic regions.
The overall prevalence of diabetes was estimated at 11.4%, with a markedly higher incidence in urban areas and among males. Prediabetes and dysglycemia followed suit, affecting 15.3% and 26.6% of the population, respectively. Hypertension, a significant risk factor for cardiovascular disease, was prevalent in 35.5% of individuals, with urban areas and males again bearing a disproportionate burden.
Obesity, both generalized and abdominal, afflicted 28.6% and 39.5% of the population, respectively, with urban regions experiencing higher rates. Strikingly, dyslipidemia, a condition characterized by abnormal lipid levels in the blood, affected a staggering 81.2% of individuals, further emphasizing the scale of the health challenge.
State-level analysis revealed wide variations in disease prevalence, with southern and northern regions bearing the brunt of diabetes, while central and northeastern states reported lower rates. Conversely, prediabetes was more prevalent in central and northern regions, with certain areas experiencing notably lower rates.
The prevalence of hypertension, obesity, and dyslipidemia also exhibited regional disparities, with high rates observed across the country, albeit with some variations. Notably, the northern region, Kerala, and Goa reported the highest prevalence of dyslipidemia, underscoring the need for targeted interventions tailored to regional needs.
The significance of this survey cannot be overstated. By providing granular insights into the prevalence of metabolic diseases across India, it lays the groundwork for evidence-based policy formulation and targeted interventions. The findings highlight the imperative of adopting a nuanced, region-specific approach to public health, tailored to address the unique challenges faced by different states and territories.
As India grapples with the escalating burden of non-communicable diseases, initiatives informed by data-driven research such as the ICMR-India Diabetes Study are pivotal in shaping effective strategies to mitigate this pressing public health challenge.
