In a recent report released on Friday, India has witnessed a significant increase in non-communicable diseases (NCDs), with cancer cases rising at an unprecedented rate. The 4th edition of the Health of Nation Report by Apollo Hospitals, unveiled on World Health Day 2024, sheds light on the concerning rise of NCDs across the country.

The report reveals that approximately one in three Indians are pre-diabetic, two in three are pre-hypertensive, and one in 10 are battling with depression. This highlights the growing prevalence of diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular diseases, mental health disorders, and cancer - all of which are significantly impacting the nation's health.

Of particular concern is the alarming surge in cancer cases, which has earned India the unfortunate title of "cancer capital of the world." Compared to global rates, the incidence of cancer in India is escalating at a rapid pace, posing a significant challenge to the healthcare system.

Furthermore, the report predicts a potential increase in the burden on healthcare services due to conditions like pre-diabetes, pre-hypertension, and mental health disorders occurring at younger ages. It emphasizes the importance of regular health screenings, which play a crucial role in reducing blood pressure (BP) and body mass index (BMI) levels, thus mitigating the risk of cardiac-related ailments.

The report highlights the most common cancers among women in India as breast, cervix, and ovary, while for men, the most prevalent are lung, mouth, and prostate cancers. Despite the lower median age for cancer diagnosis in India compared to other countries, the report reveals alarmingly low cancer screening rates.

Raising awareness about the importance of early detection and regular health check-ups is crucial to combat the growing rates of NCDs in the country. With India's designation as the "cancer capital of the world" and the surging prevalence of other NCDs, urgent action is needed to address this public health crisis.

As the nation grapples with these health challenges, healthcare providers and policymakers must join forces to prioritize preventive measures, enhance accessibility to healthcare services, and encourage early screenings to mitigate the impact of NCDs on the country's population.

India's battle against non-communicable diseases is a pressing issue that demands immediate attention and concerted efforts from all stakeholders, to safeguard the nation's health and well-being for generations to come.