India faces a significant diabetes crisis, with millions undiagnosed, increasing the risk of heart disease. Early detection through screening and lifestyle changes like diet and exercise are crucial. Community programs and modern treatments offer hope for managing diabetes and improving long-term health outcomes, reducing the economic and health burden.
If you picture diabetes as an iceberg, the part visible above water represents those living with diagnosed diabetes: the people checking their blood sugar, taking medicines, and managing their health. But the much larger, hidden part lies below the surface; millions have diabetes without knowing it, silently facing risks and damage.
In India, this hidden burden is enormous. Recent data shows that around 90 million adults are living with diabetes in 2024, making India the second highest country globally for diabetes cases. Of these, nearly 43% remain undiagnosed, unknowingly carrying risks that can escalate without timely care. Compounding this problem, over 100 million more are estimated to have prediabetes -- a warning sign that often progresses to full diabetes if left unchecked.
The slow, silent damage caused by high blood sugar does not just affect blood vessels and organs but hits the heart hardest. Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death among people with diabetes in India. Studies from 2024 reveal that Indians with diabetes face a significantly higher risk of heart attacks and strokes compared to those without diabetes. This connection makes the hidden part of the diabetes iceberg a major contributor to India's rising heart disease epidemic.
Many people only discover they have diabetes when complications like heart disease or kidney damage bring them to the hospital. The emotional and financial consequences for families and the healthcare system are immense.
This underscores the crucial need for wider awareness and early screening programmes across the country, especially in high-burden states such as Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and Goa.
But the good news is that much of this burden can be eased. Research and real-world experience show that early action -- before symptoms appear -- can dramatically improve health outcomes. A balanced diet rich in whole grains, millets, fresh vegetables, whole fruits, and healthy fats, combined with regular physical activity like walking, cycling, or yoga, helps control blood sugar and weight, and also strengthens the heart. For those at risk or with a family history, routine screening at local clinics or health camps makes it easier to catch silent cases early. Talking to a doctor early also helps to ease this burden.
Community-driven health programmes across India have started showing results: people who receive education, support, and tools to make healthy choices are less likely to develop diabetes and heart diseases. If diagnosed, advances in diabetes care, ranging from modern medicines to digital health monitoring, empower patients to take charge and live full, active lives.
What you see is just the tip. The real cost lies underneath. The visible burden is managing blood sugar, medications, and routine check-ups. The key insight is that diabetes is a major driver of economic and health challenges for India.
With early detection, conversations with a doctor about your diabetes journey and healthy habits, the invisible weight of diabetes and heart disease can be lifted, giving millions of Indians a better chance for long-lasting wellness.
References
Disclaimer: This content is part of a disease awareness initiative by Novo Nordisk. The opinions and views are that of the Healthcare Professionals. The news and editorial staff of ET had no role in the creation of this article nor vouch for or endorse any of its content. While the content on this site provides general information about health and wellbeing. It is not intended as medical advice, nor is it a substitute for professional medical expertise or treatment. If you need help getting your health under control, we recommend speaking to your doctor.