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Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) such as cardiovascular disorders, diabetes, chronic respiratory ailments, and cancers have emerged as the leading cause of premature mortality globally. A recent Lancet study tracking progress across 185 countries (2010–2019) highlighted a worrying trend for India: unlike most nations where mortality risk from NCDs declined, India witnessed an increase in NCD-related deaths, especially among women.

Key Findings from the Lancet Study

• Rising Mortality Risk: Between 2010–2019, NCD mortality in India increased by 2.1% for females and 0.1% for males, compared to a decline in the previous decade.
• Probability of Death Before 80:
  • Women – rose from 46.6% (2010) to 48.7% (2019).
  • Men – remained high at 57.9% (2019), up from 57.8% (2010).
• Major Drivers: Ischaemic heart disease and diabetes (including kidney disease due to diabetes) contributed most to the rising risk, especially in women over 40 and men over 55.
• Improvements: Declines in deaths from liver cirrhosis, stroke, COPD, and stomach cancer were recorded, largely due to better blood pressure awareness and management.

Causes of the NCD Burden in India

• Lifestyle Factors
  • Rapidly rising obesity, driven by unhealthy diets and sedentary lifestyles.
  • Increased consumption of processed foods, sugary beverages, and trans fats.
  • Tobacco and alcohol use.
• Environmental & Social Factors
  • Urbanization, pollution (ambient and indoor), and chronic stress.
  • Ageing population and poverty-driven dietary imbalances.
• Health System Gaps
  • Limited access to quality primary care and preventive services.
  • Low penetration of screening and early detection programmes in rural areas.

Expert Insights

• Diabetes–Obesity–Heart Disease Spiral: Experts warn that India’s growing obesity rates are fuelling diabetes, which in turn increases risks of cardiovascular complications.
• Policy Solutions Suggested:
  • Aggressive taxation (up to 40%) on sugary drinks and ultra-processed foods.
  • Subsidies for vegetables, fruits, and nutrient-rich foods.
  • Urban planning reforms to create walking spaces and encourage physical activity.
  • Public campaigns against tobacco, alcohol, excess salt, and stress.
  • Tackling pollution as a compounding risk factor.

National Initiatives to Combat NCDs

• National Programme for Prevention and Control of NCDs (NP-NCD): Launched in 2010, expanded in 2023, focuses on early detection, management, and referral.
• 75/25 Initiative (2023): Targets 75 million people with hypertension and diabetes by 2025 through standardized care.
• Ayushman Bharat–PMJAY: Provides financial protection for tertiary NCD treatment and upgrades PHCs into Ayushman Arogya Mandirs.
• Eat Right India Movement (FSSAI): Promotes healthier diets and reduction of trans fats.
• Fit India Movement: Encourages regular physical activity and fitness to reduce lifestyle-related risks.

Way Forward

India’s NCD challenge demands a multi-pronged strategy:

• Strengthening primary healthcare for screening and early detection.
• Fiscal measures (taxes and subsidies) to influence dietary choices.
• Health education campaigns to promote lifestyle modifications.
• Integration of NCD management into universal health coverage.
• Climate and pollution control measures, given their direct links to respiratory and cardiac illnesses.