Health experts blame odd working hours, sedentary lifestyle and consumption of junk food as the primary cause for rising number of cases among youth
Diabetes
Diabetes, one of the most common non-communicable diseases (NCD), has become a major health concern amongst Indians. A survey conducted by Indus Health Plus — a preventive health check-up specialist — revealed that 45 per cent Punekars were ignorant about its symptoms and the types.
Experts speak
Founder President of Diabetes Care and Research Foundation (DCRF) Dr Abhay Mutha said, “We get 60 to 70 new patients, who are diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes, monthly. Of these, over 40 fall within the age group of 20 to 35. This is an alarming trend. Needless to say, odd working hours, sedentary lifestyle, increased consumption of junk food and work-related stress are some of the primary factors for young people falling prey to the disease.”
Dr Vaman Khadilkar, consultant paediatrician and endocrinologist at Jehangir Hospital, said excessive thirst, sudden weight loss, bed-wetting and breathlessness are a few of the indications that a child could be suffering from Type 1 diabetes.
“Generally, parents come to us when the child suffers from breathlessness or goes into coma. Nearly 70 per cent patients who come to us are below the age of five. Because it isn’t necessary for a child’s family to have a history of diabetes, detection becomes even more difficult. The only way to diagnose it is through regular medical check-ups.”
Health experts claimed that though there was no specific reason that could be shortlisted for Type 1 diabetes, the disease is on the rise amongst those falling within the age group of 1 to 19. Type 1 diabetes harms the pancreas and affects its insulin-producing capacity.
Amol Naikawadi, preventive healthcare specialist from Indus Health Plus, said, “Diabetes has spread across the country like wildfire, and sedentary lifestyle is adding fuel to it. There is a need to urge the youth to practise a healthy lifestyle and get their sugar levels checked regularly.”
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