What Are the Top 10 Lifestyle Diseases in India?

Dr.Navneet Gill, 4 mins read

Cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, obesity, stroke, hypertension, cancer, respiratory disease, liver disease, osteoporosis, and mental health disorders are the top 10 lifestyle diseases in India. Let’s discuss them in detail and know tips to manage them:

Lifestyle Diseases

We don’t only catch disease from viruses, bacteria, genetics, and other factors. The way we live and the habits we have also put us at risk of many conditions. These conditions are called lifestyle disorders. They develop over time and can be managed easily with timely intervention. 

Though lifestyle diseases have been around for years, they have become more prominent after COVID-19. That’s due to the changing lifestyle (very little to no physical activity), poor habits (smoking and alcohol), and poor diet (high consumption of trans fats and cholesterol). The situation has reached such a level that 1 in 2 Indians (Almost 50% of the population) has a lifestyle disorder. 

Top 10 Lifestyle Diseases in India

• Cardiovascular Diseases (CVDs)

This includes a range of conditions affecting the heart and blood vessels. They can cause symptoms like chest pain or discomfort, shortness of breath, irregular heartbeat, and fatigue. 

• Diabetes 

Diabetes is a metabolic disorder in which the body cannot produce insulin (type 1 diabetes) or becomes immune to insulin (type 2 diabetes). Type 2 diabetes, in particular, is more associated with poor lifestyle, causing symptoms like increased thirst and hunger, frequent urination, fatigue, and slow wound healing. 

• Obesity

A body mass index (BMI) of 30 or more is an indication of obesity, which has become a prevalent issue not only in adults but also in children. Over 17 million people are obese or overweight in India. This is not a concern in itself but a risk factor for many other conditions as well. 

• Stroke

A reduced blood flow to a part of the brain can affect nutrient and oxygen supply, which can cause death of brain cells. This condition is called a stroke and causes symptoms like unexpected weakness, loss of sensation on one side of the body, visible problems, trouble speaking, and a severe headache.  

• Hypertension 

Hypertension or high blood pressure is a condition wherein the force of the blood against the arterial walls becomes too high. Usually referred to as a silent killer, this condition puts strain on the heart and artery walls. It causes symptoms like severe headaches, dizziness, nosebleeds, and blurred vision. 

• Cancer

Cancer is among the deadliest diseases, which has put humans in fear for years. Though treatment has improved, the fear has not flown away. In India, cancers of the lung, breast, cervical, and oral are more prevalent. Shockingly, a sedentary lifestyle and unhealthy habits have been found to be the primary culprits. The symptoms could vary based on the location, size, and severity of the cancer. 

• Respiratory Disease

Conditions like COPD and Asthma are seeing an uptick in India. This is due to worsening air quality and smoking. The common symptoms of respiratory problems include shortness of breath, persistent cough, wheezing, and chest tightness.  

• Liver and Kidney Disease

Liver problems, especially non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and cirrhosis, are increasing in India. The primary symptoms include jaundice, loss of appetite, fatigue, and abdominal pain. 

Talking about kidney diseases, both acute and chronic have taken a toll on health, causing symptoms like changes in urine, swelling in lower limbs, fatigue, shortness of breath, nausea, loss of appetite, and dry, itchy skin.

• Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is also a silently growing disease that makes the bones fragile and prone to fractures. Lack of calcium and vitamin D, sedentary habits, and ageing, especially after menopause, are its risk factors. It can cause bone fractures, back pain, loss of height over time, and stooped posture.  

• Mental Health Disorders 

Lack of social interactions, busy schedules, and other factors have increased the cases of depression, anxiety, and some other mental health disorders. It may lead to persistent sadness, fatigue, lack of concentration, sleep disturbances, suicidal thoughts, etc.  

What Next?

If you or someone you know has been diagnosed with any of the above conditions or others, and the primary cause is lifestyle-related, discuss with your doctor the lifestyle changes that can help.

Your doctor may recommend that you eat healthy, exercise regularly, stay hydrated, get enough sleep, quit bad habits (smoking and alcohol), manage stress, monitor your weight, blood pressure and sugar periodically, and talk to a doctor when needed.