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Half of India’s Population at Risk of Lifestyle Disorders; Preventive Healthcare Key, Study Finds

The findings stress the importance of proactive healthcare measures to curb the growing prevalence of lifestyle disorders. Increasing awareness and encouraging individuals to adopt healthier habits can significantly reduce the disease burden.

• By Pooja Chaturvedi Sah
• New Delhi
• Jan 30, 2025

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A new study by Redcliffe Labs has highlighted a growing health concern in India, revealing that one in every two individuals is affected by lifestyle disorders. The study, which analysed health data from 2.8 million people across the country, found that 52% of those impacted were female, while 48% were male. 

Lifestyle Disorders on the Rise in India 

India’s healthcare system has traditionally focused on combating infectious diseases. However, improved sanitation, infrastructure, and awareness have shifted the country’s health landscape toward chronic conditions. Today, a significant portion of the population is struggling with non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as diabetes, thyroid disorders, lipid imbalances, renal diseases, fatty liver, arthritis, cardiovascular conditions, and cancer. 

Experts attribute this rise to rapid urbanisation, sedentary lifestyles, stress, digital addiction, unhealthy dietary habits, and the easy availability of ultra-processed foods. 

“A National Health Crisis” 

Dr. Mayanka Lodha Seth, Chief Pathologist at Redcliffe Labs, warned about the growing burden of NCDs across all age groups. 

“This data shows that non-communicable diseases are no longer limited to older adults. We see these conditions affecting people of all age groups and genders. NCDs have increased from 9 per cent to 20 per cent, and the mortality rate due to preventable & curable NCDs has reached approximately 62 per cent. This is a health crisis for the nation, and prevention is the key to curbing it. We must adopt active lifestyles, revert to nutritious foods, and prioritise periodic health checks to monitor our vitals. Early detection helps in making informed decisions and mitigating the risk of chronic health conditions.” 

Preventive Healthcare Is the Need of the Hour 

The findings stress the importance of proactive healthcare measures to curb the growing prevalence of lifestyle disorders. Increasing awareness and encouraging individuals to adopt healthier habits can significantly reduce the disease burden. 

Aditya Kandoi, Founder and CEO of Redcliffe Labs, echoed these concerns. “The fact that 1 in 2 individuals is at risk of lifestyle diseases is alarming. While Redcliffe Labs is committed to giving India its right to quality diagnostics, it’s time our community pledges to prevention for better health and well-being. As the largest democracy in the world, we have the power to make wiser choices for a progressive nation, setting the right example for future generations. With over 14.4 million children obese in India—the leading cause of NCDs—we must take this issue seriously and start taking measures today.” 

With rising rates of obesity, processed food consumption, and physical inactivity, the risk of lifestyle disorders is escalating. Experts stress the need for early diagnostics, regular check-ups, and conscious efforts to make healthier lifestyle choices. The study serves as a critical wake-up call, urging individuals and healthcare stakeholders to prioritise preventive measures to tackle India’s growing health crisis.