In a recent address during the launch of the Rural Diabetes Prevention & Control Campaign in Varanasi, Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh expressed deep concern over the escalating prevalence of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus in India. Singh highlighted that what was once considered a disease affecting the affluent in urban areas is now reaching epidemic proportions in rural regions.
Citing data from the Indian Council of Medical Research Guidelines, Dr Singh revealed a staggering 150% increase in the number of people with diabetes in the past three decades. He highlighted a concerning trend where the age of diagnosis for Type 2 Diabetes is decreasing, notably observed in individuals aged 25-34 years in both urban and rural areas.
To tackle this health challenge, Singh outlined various initiatives undertaken by the Central Government, including a national-level free blood sugar testing campaign, a general health insurance policy, Ayushman Bharat, Wellness Clinics, and kidney dialysis facilities in all district government hospitals. He stressed the importance of collaborative efforts, urging non-governmental agencies and civil society to join hands in addressing the issue.
Singh underscored the unique challenges faced by the Indian population, emphasizing that the pathogenesis and progress of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus differ from Western populations due to distinct genetic factors. He referred to research evidence showing that even the Indian diaspora in European countries, after several generations, continues to exhibit a higher predisposition to developing Type 2 Diabetes.
Type 2 diabetes happens when the body struggles to handle sugar, called glucose. This leads to high sugar levels in the blood, causing problems for the heart, nerves, and immune system.
The main problems in Type 2 diabetes are not enough insulin (a hormone that helps use sugar) from the pancreas and cells not responding well to insulin. This makes it hard for sugar to get into cells.
To control Type 2 diabetes, it’s important to make simple changes in your life like losing weight, eating healthy, and exercising regularly. These steps are crucial for managing and reducing the impact of the condition.