World Diabetes Day 2023: India is witnessing a troubling increase in Type 2 diabetes; experts explain why

World Diabetes Day 2023: There has been a substantial rise in Type 2 diabetes cases among younger populations globally, particularly in India, over the past decade. According to experts, this surge is attributed to changing lifestyles, dietary habits, genetic factors, urbanization, and sedentary behaviors.

Notably, India has witnessed a troubling increase in Type 2 diabetes prevalence among young adults aged 20-40, posing significant long-term health challenges for various bodily functions, including the cardiovascular system and kidneys.

Younger individuals, especially women, face an elevated risk of diabetes influenced by factors such as ethnicity, socioeconomic status, geographic location, family history, age, gender, gestational diabetes history, and early puberty. Ethnic and racial minorities, lower socioeconomic backgrounds, and exposure to urban environments contribute to higher susceptibility rates. Recognizing these risk factors is crucial, as symptoms may manifest before diabetes fully develops.

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Dr. Mohit Sharma, Senior Consultant in Internal Medicine and Endocrinology at Amrita Hospital, emphasizes potential signs of Type 2 diabetes in young individuals, including frequent urination, increased thirst, excessive hunger, unexplained weight loss, chronic fatigue, blurred vision, slow wound healing, and recurring infections. Early detection is vital, especially since high blood sugar can silently damage organs for months or years before symptoms appear. Regular monitoring through simple blood tests is recommended, especially for those with patterns of obesity, unhealthy lifestyles, and family history.

Regarding long-term impacts, Dr. Vivek Chaturvedi, Head of Adult Cardiology at Amrita Hospital, notes the significant effect of Type 2 diabetes on the cardiovascular system, increasing the risk of complications such as heart attacks, strokes, and peripheral arterial disease. Atherosclerosis is a primary contributor, exacerbated by diabetes. The heart muscle can also be directly affected, potentially causing cardiomyopathy and heart failure.

Dr. Urmila Anandh, Head of Nephrology at Amrita Hospital, underscores the adverse effects of diabetes on the kidneys, leading to diabetic kidney disease. Early detection is crucial, as it progresses to kidney failure if left unmanaged. Kidney blood vessels are damaged by high cholesterol and diabetes, causing blockages and uncontrollable blood pressure. Lifestyle changes and new medicines offer hope for managing diabetic kidney disease.

Doctors recommend adopting a disciplined lifestyle to mitigate these risk factors. Urgent public health measures are essential to promote healthier lifestyles, improve healthcare accessibility, and raise awareness about diabetes risk factors among the younger demographic, given the potential consequences of this alarming trend.

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