Disease Burden in India
Relevant for sociology optional Paper- 2 & GS Mains Paper- 2
Disease burden in India is a topic of great concern and discussion. India, being the second most populous country in the world, has a high burden of disease due to various factors such as a large population, poor sanitation, inadequate healthcare facilities, poverty, and malnutrition. In this article, we will discuss the various aspects of disease burden in India and the steps taken to address it.
In India, communicable diseases such as tuberculosis, malaria, dengue, and hepatitis are still prevalent, and non-communicable diseases such as cardiovascular diseases, cancer, and diabetes are on the rise. The burden of communicable diseases in India is high due to poor sanitation, lack of access to safe drinking water, and poor hygiene practices. On the other hand, non-communicable diseases are increasing due to changes in lifestyle, urbanization, and an aging population.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), India accounts for 27% of the global TB burden. India also accounts for 40% of the global malaria burden and 27% of the global burden of dengue. Hepatitis B and C are also prevalent in India, with an estimated 40 million people living with Hepatitis B and 6 to 12 million people living with Hepatitis C.
Non-communicable diseases such as cardiovascular diseases, cancer, and diabetes are also on the rise in India. According to the Global Burden of Disease Study 2019, cardiovascular diseases account for 28.1% of all deaths in India, followed by chronic respiratory diseases (10.6%) and cancer (9.6%). Diabetes is also a major concern, with India accounting for 48% of the global diabetes burden.
The burden of disease in India is not just a public health issue but also an economic issue. According to a study by the Global Burden of Disease, the economic burden of diseases in India was estimated to be USD 6.2 trillion between 2017 and 2030. This economic burden includes direct medical costs, indirect costs such as lost productivity, and the cost of premature death.
The government of India has taken various steps to address the burden of disease in the country. The National Health Policy 2017 aims to achieve universal health coverage and provide access to quality healthcare for all. The policy focuses on promoting health and wellness, addressing the social determinants of health, and strengthening the healthcare system.
The government has also launched various programs and initiatives to address the burden of specific diseases. The Revised National Tuberculosis Control Programme (RNTCP) was launched in 1997 to control the spread of tuberculosis in the country. The program provides free diagnosis and treatment to patients and has been successful in reducing the burden of TB in the country.
The National Vector Borne Disease Control Programme (NVBDCP) was launched in 2003 to control the spread of vector-borne diseases such as malaria, dengue, and chikungunya. The program focuses on prevention, early detection, and prompt treatment of these diseases.
The government has also launched the National Programme for Prevention and Control of Cancer, Diabetes, Cardiovascular Diseases, and Stroke (NPCDCS) to address the burden of non-communicable diseases. The program focuses on awareness generation, screening, early diagnosis, and treatment of these diseases.
The Ayushman Bharat scheme, launched in 2018, aims to provide health coverage to the vulnerable sections of society. The scheme provides financial protection to 100 million families and covers medical expenses up to INR 5 lakh per family per year.
Despite these efforts, the burden of disease in India remains high. There are several challenges that need to be addressed to reduce the burden of disease in the country. One of the major challenges is the lack of adequate healthcare infrastructure in the ural areas. Most of the healthcare facilities are concentrated in urban areas, leaving the rural population with limited access to healthcare services. This is compounded by a shortage of healthcare professionals in rural areas, which makes it difficult to provide quality healthcare services to the rural population.
Another challenge is the lack of awareness and education about healthcare and disease prevention. Many people in India still believe in traditional methods of healthcare, which can delay diagnosis and treatment of diseases. Additionally, the stigma attached to certain diseases such as tuberculosis and HIV/AIDS can prevent people from seeking timely medical attention.
Poor sanitation and hygiene practices also contribute to the burden of disease in India. Open defecation, lack of access to safe drinking water, and improper disposal of waste can lead to the spread of communicable diseases. Addressing these issues will require a concerted effort from the government, civil society organizations, and the public.
In conclusion, the burden of disease in India is a complex issue that requires a multi-pronged approach. The government has taken several steps to address the burden of disease, but more needs to be done. Addressing the challenges of inadequate healthcare infrastructure, lack of awareness and education, and poor sanitation and hygiene practices is crucial to reducing the burden of disease in the country. By working together, we can ensure that all Indians have access to quality healthcare and lead healthy lives.
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