India is witnessing a sharp increase in non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as cardiovascular diseases, cancers, diabetes, and chronic respiratory conditions, warned Dr. Vivek Singh, Chief of Health (ad interim), UNICEF India. He pointed out that NCDs account for 63% of all deaths in the country and cautioned that without decisive action, the trend will only worsen.
Premature Mortality: The Hidden Crisis
Although 63% of deaths are due to NCDs, the real concern lies in premature mortality—deaths occurring between ages 30 and 70. “In India, NCDs are cutting lives short during the most productive years,” Dr. Singh explained. Currently, around 25–26% of NCD deaths occur in this age group, compared with 23% in Brazil and just 10–15% in Nordic countries and the U.S. He stressed that reducing early deaths must remain the public health priority, in line with SDG 3.4, which commits countries to lowering premature NCD mortality by one-third by 2030.
Younger Generations at Risk
As reported by the New Indian Express, Dr. Singh highlighted the alarming rise of NCDs among young adults. Cardiovascular diseases and diabetes are increasing most rapidly, with diabetes appearing earlier in life. India now has an estimated 8–10 lakh children living with type 1 diabetes. While numbers remain small, the sharp upward trend signals a red flag. He urged early interventions starting from pregnancy, childhood, and adolescence.
Triple Burden of Malnutrition
India faces a “triple burden”: under-nutrition, micronutrient deficiencies, and rising obesity. Worryingly, obesity has already overtaken underweight as a leading nutritional concern. Unless India prioritises prevention, early detection, and stronger health literacy, the NCD burden will continue to escalate.
Expanding Prevention to Children
Dr. Singh emphasised the need to expand India’s National Program for Prevention and Control of NCDs (NP-NCD) to include children. With government leadership and UNICEF’s support, early screening in schools is being explored. He noted that health literacy, school-based awareness, and responsible communication are vital to building lifelong protection against NCDs.
Path Forward: Prevention and Awareness
India has demonstrated its strength in public health, from eradicating polio to delivering COVID-19 vaccines. Building on this legacy, the government now plans to roll out the HPV vaccine and integrate child-focused Non-Communicable Diseases initiatives under one umbrella. Dr. Singh also called for healthier food environments, affordable nutrition, and a cultural shift toward practices like exclusive breastfeeding. “India’s young people must grow up protected from the lifelong burden of NCDs,” he stressed.