Preventive healthcare can secure India’s economic growth

Source: The post Preventive healthcare can secure India’s economic growth has been created, based on the article “Prescribe preventive medicine for a healthy India” published in “The Hindu” on 7 April 2025. Preventive healthcare can secure India’s economic growth.

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper2- Governance-Issues Relating to Development and Management of Social Sector/Services relating to Health.

Context: India aspires to become a $5 trillion economy. However, the country faces a major health challenge from non-communicable diseases (NCDs), which account for nearly two-thirds of all deaths. This “silent epidemic” threatens economic growth by reducing productivity and affecting the working-age population. The article stresses the urgent need for a preventive healthcare approach.

For detailed information on India Needs to Prioritize Preventive Healthcare for a Healthier Future read this article here

NCDs a major concern for India’s future

1. Rising Mortality: NCDs cause around 5–6 million deaths in India every year, accounting for nearly two-thirds of all deaths.
2. Economic Burden: NCDs could cost India 5%–10% of its GDP. A projected economic loss of $3.5–$4 trillion is expected between 2012 and 2030.
3. Impact on Youth: NCDs are now affecting younger people. Around 22% of Indians over 30 are at risk of dying from an NCD before age 70. This affects the productive workforce crucial for India’s economic growth.
4. Loss of Productivity: A sick workforce means lower participation and reduced productivity, weakening national development.

Major Reasons for NCDs (Non-Communicable Diseases):

1. Lifestyle Changes: Sedentary behavior and physical inactivity are key contributors. Just 30 minutes of walking, yoga, or any exercise daily can help, but is often neglected.
2. Unhealthy Diets: High sugar, salt, and unhealthy fat consumption, and low intake of fruits and vegetables increase the risk of obesity, heart disease, and diabetes.
3. Obesity: Around 22%–23% of Indian adults are overweight, raising the risk of chronic illnesses.
4. Tobacco and Alcohol Use: These lead to cancer, liver failure, and heart problems.
5. Air Pollution: It worsens lung diseases like COPD and causes heart attacks. Pollution must be seen as a public health threat.
6. Early Age Impact: Many people in their 30s and 40s now suffer from kidney or heart problems.
7. Genetic Factors: Family history also increases vulnerability

Important of  early detection in fighting NCDs

1. Prevents Progression: Detecting diseases like cancer and diabetes early can prevent them from becoming more severe. For instance, removing a precancerous polyp can stop colon cancer.
2. Reduces Mortality: Early detection significantly lowers the risk of death. Screening tests like mammograms for breast cancer and HPV tests for cervical cancer can find diseases in treatable stages.
3. Saves on Healthcare Costs: Early intervention means less expensive treatments and fewer long-term healthcare costs.
4. Improves Quality of Life: Early treatment helps maintain better overall health, reducing complications and enhancing life quality.

Role play by technology and government in preventive care

1. Technology’s Role:

• Health Monitoring: India has over 750 million smartphone users. Apps and wearable devices can track health, give reminders, and assess risks.
• Predictive Tools: AI can analyze health data and predict who is at risk for diseases. It can also detect early signs in scans like X-rays, enabling timely action.

2. Government’s Role:

• National Programmes: The National Programme for Prevention and Control of NCDs focuses on screening and early intervention.
• Health and Wellness Centres: These centers offer preventive care, health check-ups, and education to help people avoid serious illness.

Conclusion:

Preventive care is the best way to protect India’s health and economy. With lifestyle changes, early screenings, digital tools, and strong public health programs, India can reduce the impact of NCDs and move towards its $5 trillion goal.

Question for practice:

Examine how the rising burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) poses a threat to India’s aspiration of becoming a $5 trillion economy.