18% of 1.53 crore in Kerala prone to lifestyle diseases
A recent health screening in Kerala, found that nearly one in five people over the age of 30 are at high risk for developing lifestyle diseases. The Aardram health lifestyle disease screening, carried out by Asha workers through house visits, discovered that one in three individuals tested had hypertension. This initiative highlights the importance of home screening and follow-up treatment for those identified with health concerns.
What is the Aardram Mission?
Within the "Nava Kerala Mission," which was started by the Kerala government, Aardram Mission focuses on the "good health and well-being" of the public. This mission aims to provide high-quality, patient-centered healthcare services in government hospitals and to expand specialty and super specialty offerings in district and taluk hospitals.
Hypertension, diabetes, and cancer have been diagnosed in screened population
According to the health department's data, of the 20,51,305 people suspected of having hypertension, 6,26,530 (31%) were diagnosed with the condition. Among the 20,45,507 individuals suspected of having diabetes, 55,102 (2.7%) were confirmed cases. Additionally, about 5.96% of the screened population was diagnosed with cancer, and 4.11% were found to have both diabetes and hypertension.
2nd phase of Aardram Health Lifestyle Disease screening to begin
Health Minister Veena George announced that the second phase of the Aardram health lifestyle disease screening will begin soon, focusing on leprosy, visual impairment, hearing impairment, and mental health issues. Follow-up tests for approximately 13.6 lakh people identified as being at risk for lifestyle diseases have been completed, and treatment has been ensured for those who need it. The second phase will also increase screening efforts in urban areas.
Why is this a cause of concern for India?
India has seen a sharp increase in the diagnosis of lifestyle diseases like obesity, diabetes, and hypertension in recent years. Stress, sedentary lifestyles, poor diets, and fast urbanization are the main causes of this trend. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that 6 million deaths in India each year are caused by non-communicable diseases, or NCDs, of which lifestyle disorders are a subset.
What are the most common lifestyle diseases in the country?
Diabetes is the most common lifestyle disease in India. Experts claim that the prevalence of this illness is rapidly increasing nationwide, particularly in urban areas. On this list are obesity, heart diseases, hypertension, COPD, arteriosclerosis, cirrhosis, and mental health issues like depression and anxiety. Experts believe poor sleep, unhealthy eating habits, little or no physical exercise, smoking, drinking, and drug addiction, exposure to pollution, and high-stress levels are the major causes of lifestyle issues in India.
