Scientists are calling Type 2 Diabetes a “new pandemic” for India because of its rapid rise across all age groups and states. Over 7.7 crore Indians have diabetes today, and that number is expected to grow. This increase in diabetic cases is driven by lifestyle changes like urbanization, unhealthy diets high in sugar and fats, and a decrease in physical activity.

Demographics also play a key role. India’s large and diverse population, particularly the growing middle class, is adopting less active lifestyles. Genetic factors also contribute to a growth in cases. For example, South Asians are genetically more susceptible to diabetes due to a higher risk of insulin resistance and abdominal obesity. Worryingly, the condition is also affecting more young people, adding to the long-term health burden.

This growing prevalence of Type 2 Diabetes in India threatens to overwhelm healthcare resources and reduce the quality of life for millions, making it a significant public health crisis.