Diabetes and Other Hormonal Disorders

Diabetes

In a study conducted by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) in 1972, it was reported that the prevalence of diabetes in urban India was estimated to be only 2%–2.5%, while the rural prevalence was 0.5%–1.5%. However, these rates have drastically increased due to the rapid improvement in socioeconomic conditions leading to unhealthy lifestyles contributing to huge increases in the prevalence of overweight and obesity. Largely driven by the increasing obesity rates, the prevalence rates of diabetes have entered double figures and today in some of the large metropolitan cities such as Delhi, the prevalence rates of diabetes in adults >20 years of age are over 25%.

In a national representative ICMR–INDIAB study (2023), it was reported that 136 million adults >20 years of age are prediabetic. This is an alarming number but also presents a golden window of opportunity for prevention of diabetes.

Other hormonal disorders

As per WHO, Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) affects an estimated 8–13% of reproductive-aged women. Up to 70% of affected women remain undiagnosed worldwide. PCOS is the most common cause of anovulation and a leading cause of infertility. PCOS is associated with a variety of long-term health problems that affect physical and emotional well-being.

As per the recent Lancet report, 42 million people in India have thyroid disorders. Hypothyroidism, specifically, is the most common thyroid disorder in India, affecting one in ten adults.

At The Basic Meals, we believe in ABCD Mantra. ABCD refers to keeping the

• A: A1c <7%; for diabetes
• B: Blood pressure <140/90 mmHg or lower;
• C: Cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol within normal limits; and
• D: Discipline (Balanced diet with healthy lifestyle pattern)

The time to act is NOW! Don’t wait…