Nithin Kamath, co-founder and CEO of Zerodha, has expressed concern over the alarming rise of diabetes in India. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Kamath underscored India’s position as the country with the highest number of diabetes cases globally, affecting over 21 crore people. He noted that diabetes, once known as a “disease of affluence,” now impacts people across all age groups and socio-economic backgrounds.
“If you’re a 20-year-old woman living in an Indian city today, there’s a 64.6% chance of developing diabetes in your lifetime. For young men, the risk is 55.5%,” Kamath shared, emphasizing the growing threat this health crisis poses to younger generations.
Diabetes: India’s Silent Epidemic
Diabetes is a condition where the body struggles to regulate blood sugar levels due to insufficient insulin production or inefficient insulin use. Left untreated, it can lead to severe complications such as heart disease, kidney failure, and blindness.
A Global and National Challenge
Globally, diabetes has grown from affecting 63 crore people in 1990 to 83 crore in 2022. India tops the charts with over 21 crore adults living with diabetes, accounting for over 15% of the population. Alarmingly, the disease is no longer limited to older people—young Indians, especially urban women in their 20s, face a lifetime risk of 64.6%, while for young men, it’s 55.5%.
The Urban-Rural Divide
Urban areas report a higher prevalence of diabetes at 18.5%, compared to 14.9% in rural areas. Sedentary lifestyles, processed diets, and high stress levels contribute to this trend. Southern states like Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh report particularly high rates, while states like Rajasthan fare better but still face challenges.
Healthcare Access and Financial Strain
Less than 25% of Indians have health insurance, forcing most to pay for medical expenses out of pocket. Diabetes care costs an average of ₹15,535 annually per person—a heavy burden for low-income families. States with stronger healthcare systems, like Chandigarh and Goa, perform better in awareness and treatment, while states like Bihar and Uttar Pradesh lag due to inadequate infrastructure.
Low Awareness and Treatment Gaps
Nearly 27.5% of Indians with diabetes remain undiagnosed. Among those diagnosed, only 21.5% receive treatment, and fewer than 7% manage to control their blood sugar effectively. Rural areas and lower-income groups are disproportionately affected, while urban residents and wealthier individuals have better access to care.
Economic and Social Impact
The economic cost of diabetes is massive. In 2017, India faced productivity losses worth ₹176.6 lakh crores (~$2.6 trillion) due to diabetes-related complications. Families also bear the burden of financial strain, emotional stress, and lifestyle changes, which can further increase diabetes risk for future generations.
Addressing the Crisis
India must take a comprehensive approach to combat diabetes:
- Awareness Campaigns: Educate people on symptoms, risks, and prevention strategies.
- Preventive Measures: Encourage lifestyle changes like walking or cycling for an extra five minutes daily.
- Healthcare Access: Expand insurance coverage and improve healthcare infrastructure in underserved areas.
- Early Detection: Implement nationwide screening programs to catch and treat diabetes early.
A Call to Action
Diabetes is not just a health problem; it’s a societal and economic challenge. With better education, preventive measures, and equitable healthcare, India can tackle this growing epidemic. Protecting the nation’s families, workforce, and economy requires immediate and coordinated action.
Common Symptoms of Diabetes
Diabetes often develops gradually, and its symptoms can vary depending on the type (Type 1, Type 2, or gestational). Early detection is crucial to prevent complications. Below are the common symptoms:
1. Frequent Urination (Polyuria)
- The body tries to eliminate excess glucose through urine, leading to increased urination, especially at night.
2. Excessive Thirst (Polydipsia)
- Frequent urination can cause dehydration, leading to an unquenchable thirst.
3. Unexplained Weight Loss
- Despite eating normally, people with diabetes may lose weight as the body starts breaking down fat and muscle for energy.
4. Increased Hunger (Polyphagia)
- The body’s inability to use glucose effectively leads to constant hunger and cravings.
5. Fatigue and Weakness
- High blood sugar levels affect the body’s ability to convert glucose into energy, leaving you feeling tired.
6. Blurred Vision
- High glucose levels can cause swelling in the lens of the eye, leading to vision problems.
7. Slow Healing of Wounds
- High blood sugar impairs circulation and the immune system, making it harder for wounds to heal.
8. Tingling or Numbness in Hands and Feet
- Known as diabetic neuropathy, this occurs due to nerve damage caused by prolonged high blood sugar levels.
9. Frequent Infections
- Diabetes can weaken the immune system, leading to recurring infections, such as urinary tract infections (UTIs), gum infections, or skin infections.
10. Darkened Skin Patches (Acanthosis Nigricans)
- Some people with diabetes may notice dark, velvety patches of skin, particularly around the neck, armpits, or groin.
11. Irritability and Mood Swings
- Blood sugar fluctuations can affect mental well-being, leading to irritability or mood changes.
12. Fruity Breath Odor
- A sign of diabetic ketoacidosis, more common in Type 1 diabetes, caused by the breakdown of fat producing ketones.
If you or someone you know is experiencing these symptoms, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and management. Early intervention can help prevent complications associated with diabetes.
