Obesity And Diabetes Rising Across India: India is currently facing such a health crisis, where on one hand obesity and diabetes are increasing rapidly, while on the other hand malnutrition still remains a big challenge. The latest data from the National Family Health Survey- NFHS-6, 2023-24 shows that two opposite problems related to nutrition exist simultaneously in the country. In many states, people are struggling with overweight and obesity, while a large part of the same population is still suffering from malnutrition.
Increase in cases of obesity
According to the survey, 30.7 percent women and 27.3 percent men in the age group of 15 to 49 years now fall in the overweight or obese category. This growth is much faster than NFHS-5. The situation appears to be especially serious in urban areas, where about 43 percent of women and 36.3 percent of men are affected by obesity or overweight.
Malnutrition problem also increased
On the other hand, the problem of malnutrition seems to be increasing instead of ending. According to the report, almost every fifth adult in the country still falls in the underweight category. The underweight rate among men has increased from 16.2 percent to 19.7 percent, while among women it has increased from 18.7 percent to 19.7 percent. This situation shows that nutritional inequalities still persist.
Diabetes cases also increased
NFHS-6 has also increased the concern regarding diabetes. 17.8 percent of women above 15 years of age were found to have higher than normal blood sugar levels or were taking diabetes medication. This figure was recorded at 20.9 percent in men, that is, every fifth man is dependent on diabetes or its related medicines. This number has increased significantly compared to the previous survey. In the report, the situation in many states appeared more worrying. A significant increase in obesity cases has been recorded in West Bengal, Maharashtra, Gujarat, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu. The problem of malnutrition was seen increasing in states like Bihar, Jharkhand, Rajasthan, Assam, Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh. In Uttar Pradesh too, an increase in the cases of obesity, malnutrition and diabetes has been recorded.
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What is the situation in Uttar Pradesh?
The rate of diabetes in the state is increasing faster than the national average. The situation is such that now almost every fifth man and every sixth woman in the state is affected by diabetes. According to the survey, the rate of increase in diabetes among women in the entire country has been recorded at 4.3 percent, but in Uttar Pradesh this figure has reached 5.5 percent. The situation among men is also worrying. While the growth rate at the national level is 5.3 percent, in Uttar Pradesh it has been recorded at around 8 percent.
Decline in high BP cases
Some relief has definitely been seen in BP cases. There has been a slight decline in the rate of high blood pressure problem in both men and women, but despite this, almost every fifth adult in the country is still affected by high blood pressure. According to experts, it remains a major risk factor for heart disease, stroke and serious kidney related diseases.
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Disclaimer: This information is based on research studies and expert opinion. Do not consider this as a substitute for medical advice. Before adopting any new activity or exercise, please consult your doctor or relevant specialist.
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