Nithin Kamath, co-founder and CEO of Zerodha, has spotlighted the alarming rise of diabetes in India, sharing his concerns on X (formerly Twitter). India, holding the unenviable position of having the highest number of diabetes cases worldwide, sees over 21 crore individuals affected. Kamath pointed out that diabetes, previously known as “a disease of affluence,” now impacts people across all ages and socio-economic backgrounds.
Shocking Statistics: Risk for Young Indians
Kamath shared troubling statistics:
- A 20-year-old urban woman today faces a 64.6% chance of developing diabetes in her lifetime.
- For young urban men, the risk is 55.5%.
These figures underscore the widespread reach of the epidemic, sparing no demographic.
Low Awareness and Financial Strain
Kamath highlighted the lack of awareness as a major hurdle. He noted:
- 27.5% of people with diabetes remain undiagnosed.
- Among those diagnosed, very few receive adequate treatment.
The challenge is compounded by limited health insurance penetration. With less than 20% of Indians covered, most individuals face out-of-pocket expenses for medical care, which can be crippling for low-income households.
Kamath’s Recommendations: Preventive and Systemic Measures
Kamath advocated for a multi-pronged approach:
- Promoting Preventive Habits: Regular exercise and a healthy diet can make a significant difference. He suggested simple changes like walking or cycling for an extra five minutes daily.
- Improved Early Detection: Better diagnostic programs can identify diabetes earlier, increasing treatment success rates.
- Expanded Healthcare Access: Ensuring healthcare affordability and increasing health insurance coverage are critical.
He also lauded efforts by startups and organisations promoting healthier lifestyles while urging collective action from policymakers, businesses, and individuals.
A Collective Call to Action
Kamath’s message is a clarion call for addressing the diabetes crisis with urgency. From public awareness campaigns to systemic reforms, his insights stress the need for coordinated efforts to mitigate the disease’s growing impact on public health and economic stability.
