Over the past decade, India has witnessed a significant economic transformation leading to a notable increase in per capita income. While this financial progress has undoubtedly enhanced the quality of life for many, it has also introduced challenges, particularly in the realm of public health. As incomes rise, so does the prevalence of lifestyle diseases, highlighting the delicate balance between prosperity and wellness.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), it is projected that nearly 500 million people worldwide will develop lifestyle diseases by 2030, costing the global economy approximately USD 27 billion annually. This alarming trend underscores the adverse effects of economic prosperity on health, with conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, cancer, mental illness, and obesity on the rise in tandem with increasing incomes.
In India, the repercussions of this economic boom are already evident. Sedentary lifestyles, lack of work-life balance, excessive consumption of processed foods, and escalating addiction to tobacco and alcohol have contributed to a sharp increase in health issues. Heart disease, chronic respiratory ailments, and diabetes now account for a significant portion of all deaths in the country.
The diabetes epidemic is particularly concerning, with cases expected to soar from 70 million in 2022 to 134 million by 2045. Moreover, diabetes leads to a host of related health complications, including kidney disorders, vision impairment, nerve damage, and compromised immunity.
- Advertisement -
Notably, these lifestyle diseases are no longer confined to older age groups but are increasingly affecting younger individuals, even those in their productive years. For instance, half of all heart attacks in India occur in men under 50, with a quarter striking men under 40. This demographic shift underscores the urgent need for India’s healthcare system to evolve from a reactive model to one that prioritizes prevention and early intervention.
The phenomenon of “affluenza,” where increased wealth correlates with a higher risk of certain illnesses, is not unique to India but has been observed globally. As economies grow, so do consumption patterns, often leading to unhealthy lifestyle choices such as high-calorie diets, alcohol, and tobacco use.
Furthermore, while individuals in the upper-middle class tend to prioritize health and wellness, many struggle to make this transition due to socioeconomic barriers. In India, moving from the lower-middle class to the middle class is common, but ascending to the upper-middle class is more challenging.
As India’s economy continues to expand, there is an urgent need for proactive measures to address the root causes of lifestyle diseases. This includes comprehensive public health campaigns promoting healthy habits, workplace wellness programs, and policies supporting healthy lifestyles. By raising awareness, fostering individual responsibility, and implementing supportive policies, India can mitigate the adverse health effects of economic prosperity and safeguard the well-being of its population.
