Introduction: Rising Chronic Disease Deaths Among Indian Women
A new study published in The Lancet medical journal has raised serious concerns about rising chronic disease deaths among Indian women. The research, led by Professor Majid Ezzati from Imperial College London, shows that women in India face a higher mortality risk from heart disease, cancer, diabetes, and other non-communicable diseases (NCDs) compared to men.
Key Findings of the Study
- Increased Mortality in Women: Between 2010 and 2019, mortality rates among Indian women from chronic diseases rose by 2.1%, while the increase among men was just 0.1%.
- Age Factor: Women above 40 years and men above 55 years face the highest risks.
- Lifetime Risk: By 2019, the probability of an Indian woman dying from an NCD before reaching 80 years was 48.7%, compared to 46.6% a decade earlier.
- Major Causes: Heart disease, diabetes-related kidney problems, and lung cancer were identified as leading contributors.
Why Women Are More Affected
Experts suggest that while men benefit from improved treatments for certain conditions such as ischemic heart disease and liver cirrhosis, Indian women remain disproportionately vulnerable due to gaps in early detection, lifestyle-related risks, and healthcare access.
India Among the Top Five Globally
According to the study, India is among the five countries worldwide that reported the sharpest rise in female mortality from non-communicable diseases during the past decade. Researchers warn this could place additional strain on India’s healthcare system if preventive measures are not prioritized.
Concerns Over Data Quality
While the findings are alarming, the authors caution that the available data on mortality is of low quality in India. They recommend further research and improved health records to ensure more reliable conclusions.
FAQs on Rising Chronic Disease Deaths Among Indian Women
1. Why are chronic disease deaths rising among Indian women?
Lifestyle changes, increasing stress, poor nutrition, and limited access to preventive healthcare are major factors behind the rise.
2. Which chronic diseases pose the biggest threat to Indian women?
Heart disease, diabetes, kidney complications, and lung cancer are the most common causes of premature deaths.
3. How can women reduce their risk of chronic diseases?
Regular health check-ups, maintaining a healthy diet, avoiding tobacco, and engaging in physical activity can significantly reduce risks.
Conclusion: Rising Chronic Disease Deaths Among Indian Women
The Lancet study underscores a critical health challenge: the rising chronic disease deaths among Indian women. Immediate action through awareness campaigns, improved medical screening, and accessible healthcare services is essential to safeguard the health of millions of women across the country.
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