New Delhi: On World Diabetes Day, Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh highlighted diabetes as a pressing national issue affecting millions in India and emphasized the need for collaborative efforts to curb rising cases. Speaking at an event in the national capital with the theme “Breaking Barriers, Bridging Gaps,” Dr. Singh called for a united approach to ensure affordable and accessible diabetes care for all.
Diabetes, now a global health concern, affects approximately 828 million people worldwide. According to a Lancet study, India led the world with 212 million diabetics in 2022. Dr. Singh stressed the urgency of addressing systemic challenges, including gaps in healthcare access, awareness, and treatment adherence. He noted that nearly half of those diagnosed either remain unaware of their condition or face barriers in continuing treatment due to financial or informational constraints.
Dr. Singh proposed a “PPP plus PPP” model to tackle these issues, integrating domestic public-private partnerships with international collaborations. This two-tiered approach aims to bridge disparities in diabetes care and raise awareness across the population. He underscored the importance of a comprehensive national response involving healthcare providers, policymakers, families, and communities.
“Diabetes care and prevention are far too significant to be left solely to medical professionals,” Dr. Singh said. “Through combined efforts, we can bridge the gaps in awareness, care, and treatment accessibility.”
Experts have identified lifestyle changes as critical to managing and preventing diabetes. According to Dr. Suryadevara Varun, Consultant at Apollo Hospitals, India’s carbohydrate-heavy diet and rising consumption of processed foods rich in sugars and unhealthy fats have significantly contributed to the diabetes epidemic. These dietary patterns, combined with rapid weight gain and insulin resistance, are key drivers of Type 2 diabetes.
Additionally, a sedentary lifestyle has worsened the situation. Increased desk jobs and prolonged screen time have reduced physical activity levels, impairing the body’s ability to regulate insulin effectively. Dr. Rajesh Khadgawat, Professor at AIIMS, emphasized that lifestyle changes, such as regular physical activity and weight management, are essential. “Reducing weight by 5% can significantly help in the prevention and treatment of Type 2 diabetes,” he said.
Individuals with a family history of diabetes or autoimmune conditions are at heightened risk, according to Dr. Sonali Kagne, Consultant at Sir HN Reliance Foundation Hospital. Environmental factors, such as exposure to certain toxins, also play a role in increasing susceptibility. Experts highlighted that the underlying mechanisms of diabetes remain similar in both adult and pediatric cases.
Public education is crucial to overcoming the diabetes crisis. Raising awareness about symptoms, the importance of early diagnosis, and the benefits of dietary and lifestyle modifications can help reduce the disease burden. Health professionals agree that a combination of awareness campaigns and policy measures is necessary to foster healthier habits among Indians.
With millions impacted by the condition, addressing India’s diabetes epidemic requires a collective effort at every level, from individual lifestyle changes to systemic healthcare reforms.