Non-communicable diseases are the biggest health issue that we face today. They account for 70% of disease-related deaths globally!
Non-communicable or chronic diseases last a lifetime. Cancer, asthma, diabetes, thyroid, and hypertension are some of the most common ones. They are not transmitted from person to person but develop over time due to genetics, lifestyle and environmental factors.
Who is at risk
Although people of all ages are at risk of developing chronic diseases, these conditions are often associated with the elderly.
Unfortunately, the numbers from the past 5 years say otherwise.
Approximately 7 crore people lose their life to these conditions before the age of 70.
Risk Factors of Chronic Diseases
Many factors drive non-communicable diseases. While gene mutation and family history cannot be changed, there are modifiable risk factors. This means that with appropriate lifestyle changes and preventive measures, we can reduce the likelihood of developing chronic diseases.
Modifiable risk factors
These risk factors include factors that can be changed or managed such as simple lifestyle changes.
- Use of Tobacco and alcohol
- Physical inactivity
- Unhealthy diet such as a high intake of sodium
Tobacco alone causes almost 80 lakh deaths every year. In 2020, excess alcohol consumption was the cause of approximately 7,41,300 cancer cases. Out of all the other modifiable factors, smoking and alcohol contribute to almost 10% of cancer cases together.
Metabolic Risk Factors
These risk factors are either caused by preexisting metabolic conditions or develop due to modifiable risk factors.
- High blood pressure
- Being overweight/Obese
- Hyperglycemia i.e. high levels of glucose deposits in the blood.
- Hyperlipidemia i.e. high levels of fat deposits in the blood
High BP or Hypertension is approximately accounts for 19% of deaths among metabolic risk factors. Maintaining a healthy weight, managing blood sugar levels, and adopting heart-friendly diets can significantly reduce the risk of these conditions.
Environmental Risk Factors
These risk factors are caused by the surrounding environment.
Air pollution leads to approximately 57 lakh deaths every year globally – caused by heart attacks, lung diseases and cancers. It is followed by a lack of access to proper sanitation and drinking water.
The environmental risk factors highlight the need for clean and safe living conditions, not just for prevention but also for overall well-being.
Prevention and Control
Preventing non-communicable diseases is not as easy as one may think. The main reason is that the people who are the most at risk for these diseases are often the less privileged ones.
The governments of many states, such as Rajasthan and Delhi, have started many schemes to help cancer patients bear the burden of treatment costs.
Behavioural Changes for Prevention
Preventive measures begin with personal responsibility and awareness. Simple changes can lead to significant long-term health benefits:
- Healthy diet: A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins helps prevent obesity, diabetes, and heart disease. Reducing sodium and processed foods can also help manage blood pressure.
- Regular physical activity: Incorporating at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise per day, like walking, cycling, or yoga, can significantly reduce the risk of NCDs.
- Quit smoking and limit alcohol: Smoking cessation programs and moderating alcohol intake can drastically reduce the risk of cancers and cardiovascular diseases.
- Regular health check-ups: Screening for blood pressure, cholesterol, and glucose levels can help in the early detection of NCDs, enabling timely intervention.
The Road Ahead
Non-communicable diseases pose a serious threat to global health, and combating them requires collective effort. From individual lifestyle changes to national and global initiatives, every step counts in the fight against these chronic conditions.
By raising awareness, promoting healthier lifestyles, and improving healthcare access, we can work towards a healthier future for all.
