Being Healthy is Freedom

On Independence Day, the nation reflects on the values that make it great—freedom, resilience, and the pursuit of happiness. This special occasion serves as a reminder of the importance of both national independence and personal health.

In April 2024, Apollo Hospitals released the fourth edition of its "Health of Nation" report to mark World Health Day, shedding light on the concerning rise of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in India. The report exposes a significant surge in NCDs, with cancer cases escalating at an alarming rate, positioning India as the "cancer capital of the world". Shockingly, 1 in 3 Indians are prediabetic, 2 in 3 are pre-hypertensive, and 1 in 10 suffer from depression. The report advocates for regular health screenings to mitigate risks, emphasizing their role in reducing blood pressure and BMI levels. Apollo’s data indicates a positive trend, with an increasing number of people opting for comprehensive health checks to safeguard their wellness.

Apollo Hospitals, highlights the indispensable role of health in national development, urging concerted efforts against the escalating threat of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) like cancer, diabetes, hypertension, and obesity. Furthermore, the prevalence of obesity in India is rapidly increasing, with 3 in 4 individuals undergoing health checks at Apollo Hospitals being either obese or overweight. Obesity incidence has surged from 9% in 2016 to 20% in 2023, exacerbating the risk of chronic NCDs like diabetes and hypertension. Speaking of which, hypertension incidence has also seen a concerning uptick, rising from 9% in 2016 to 13% in 2023. Shockingly, 2 out of 3 Indians are moving toward high blood pressure, with 66% in the pre-hypertensive stage, underlining the urgent need for preventive measures.

Moreover, diabetes remains a significant concern, with 1 in 10 individuals having uncontrolled diabetes and 1 in 3 being prediabetic. Surprisingly, 1 in 5 individuals below the age of 45 are prediabetic, indicating a worrying trend of early metabolic disorders. Alongside physical ailments, mental health issues like depression are also on the rise, with 1 in every 10 individuals screened exhibiting symptoms of depression. Notably, the highest percentage of depression is among individuals aged 18 to 25, where 1 in 5 are affected, highlighting the pressing need for mental health support and awareness.

The Health of the Nation 2024 report paints a concerning picture: a dramatic rise in cancer cases, with the average age of diagnosis decreasing significantly. For instance, the median age for breast cancer diagnosis in India is 52, compared to 63 in the USA and Europe, indicating an alarming trend of early-onset diseases. However, despite these distressing statistics, cancer screening rates remain abysmally low, with only 1.9% of women undergoing breast cancer screening and 0.9% undergoing cervical cancer screening, highlighting a critical gap in preventive healthcare.

Being healthy is, in many ways, a profound form of freedom. It empowers us to live our lives to the fullest, to pursue our dreams, and to overcome challenges with strength and vitality. When we are healthy, we are free from the constraints of illness and physical limitations. This freedom allows us to contribute to our families, our communities, and our nation in meaningful ways.

In the same way that our forefathers fought for the freedom of this country, we must also commit to the fight for our personal health. This commitment means making informed choices about our diet, staying active, and prioritizing mental wellness. It means taking preventive measures, seeking regular medical check-ups, and not ignoring the signs our bodies give us.

Our healthcare system plays a crucial role in this journey. As a healthcare provider, our mission is to ensure that every individual has the resources and support they need to achieve and maintain good health. We are dedicated to advancing medical research, improving healthcare delivery, and ensuring access to quality care for all.

The alarming rise of NCDs globally and advocates for prioritizing innovation in preventive healthcare and improving accessibility.  Apollo Hospitals is integrating technology to enhance healthcare delivery, offering personalized services through AI-backed programs and extensive screening initiatives. The importance of leveraging technology to improve disease prevention, diagnosis accuracy, and patient-centric treatment methodologies, emphasizing that a healthy population is essential for societal prosperity and resilience in the 21st century.

Honoring the nation's freedom also includes recognizing the freedom that comes with good health. A collective pledge to take care of personal health and support one another in this endeavor ensures that everyone can enjoy the liberties and opportunities secured by forefathers.