A Call for Action
Nithin Kamath, CEO and co-founder of Zerodha, has raised a critical alarm about the rising tide of diabetes in India. In a recent statement, he highlighted the alarming statistics, with India now holding the unfortunate title of having the highest number of diabetes cases globally, affecting over 21 crore people.
Kamath emphasized that diabetes, once considered a disease of affluence, is now impacting individuals across all age groups and economic backgrounds. He expressed concern about the lack of awareness surrounding the disease, stating that nearly 27.5% of individuals with diabetes remain undiagnosed. Additionally, among those diagnosed, a significant portion does not receive adequate treatment.
The data presented by Kamath paints a grim picture for the future. Young urban populations face a particularly high lifetime risk of developing diabetes, with women facing a 64.6% chance and men a 55.5% chance.
Kamath attributes the diabetes crisis to several systemic issues, including the lack of health insurance coverage. With less than 20% of the population insured, many Indians are forced to bear the financial burden of medical expenses, disproportionately impacting low-income families.
To effectively address this growing health concern, Kamath advocates for a multi-pronged approach focused on prevention. He suggests simple lifestyle changes, such as incorporating walking or cycling into daily routines, can significantly reduce the risk of developing diabetes. Additionally, he emphasizes the importance of early detection programs, improved access to healthcare, and wider insurance coverage.
While acknowledging the efforts of startups and organizations promoting healthier lifestyles, Kamath calls for a unified effort from individuals, businesses, and policymakers to effectively tackle the diabetes epidemic. This collaborative approach is crucial to mitigate the impact of this growing health crisis and ensure a healthier future for all Indians.