India, particularly its urban centres, is witnessing an alarming increase in lifestyle diseases. These conditions, which include diabetes, hypertension, chronic kidney disease (CKD), and various cancers, are increasingly affecting the younger population. A recent survey by the Helping Hand Foundation (HHF) in Hyderabad provides significant insights into the extent and impact of these diseases in the city.
Findings from the HHF Survey
The HHF’s annual report for 2024 reveals a staggering statistic: one in three households in Hyderabad’s urban and peri-urban areas have at least one member suffering from lifestyle diseases. This statistic underscores a public health crisis that could have far-reaching implications for the city’s socio-economic landscape.
Surge in Cancer Cases
Among the various lifestyle diseases, cancer is of particular concern. The report highlights a significant increase in cancer cases, especially oral cancer, among young adults. In 2024, HHF received over 300 requests for financial assistance related to cancer treatment, with 25% of these cases involving cancers of the mouth, tongue, or oral cavity. This rise is indicative of changing lifestyle factors and possibly an increase in tobacco use and other carcinogens prevalent in urban environments.
Non-Communicable Diseases in Rural Areas
The trend of escalating lifestyle diseases is not limited to urban areas. HHF’s collaboration with Wipro Care in rural areas revealed that 22% of the population suffers from diabetes, hypertension, or both. This highlights that lifestyle diseases are becoming increasingly common even outside the traditional urban settings, prompting the need for widespread public health interventions.
Impact on Younger Populations
Another worrying observation from the survey is the rise of cerebrovascular accidents (strokes) among younger age groups. In 2024, the HHF Rehabilitation Centre treated 225 stroke patients on a not-for-profit basis, indicating that these traditionally age-associated conditions are now affecting younger individuals. This trend may be attributed to various factors, including stress, poor dietary habits, and lack of physical activity.
The Role of NGOs
In response to the burgeoning health crisis, organizations such as HHF are playing a vital role in providing assistance. The foundation’s efforts led to the treatment of 3,443 patients, saving an estimated ₹44 crores in out-of-pocket medical expenses in 2024 alone. By linking economically vulnerable patients with free medical treatments and support services, HHF is helping to alleviate the financial burden of healthcare.
Additionally, the report reveals that HHF operates 12 Primary Health Centres across urban and peri-urban slums, serving over 5.52 lakh patients in 2024. Many of these cases were attributed to infectious diseases, but the growing presence of chronic non-communicable diseases cannot be ignored.
Malnutrition: A Rising Challenge
The survey also highlights alarming levels of malnutrition among children in urban slum settlements. Screening conducted through HHF’s school health program revealed that 27-28% of children between the ages of three and eight are stunted, while 24% suffer from wasting. Furthermore, 30% of the examined children were found to be anaemic. This malnutrition crisis is closely linked to the underlying lifestyle factors affecting overall health and wellbeing.
-Raja Aditya
