Delhi Diabetes Deaths Surge 35% in a Year

A recent report indicates a sharp 35% increase in diabetes-related deaths in Delhi during 2024, with fatalities climbing from 1,823 in 2023 to 2,459. The proportion of hospital deaths linked to diabetes within total institutional deaths also rose significantly, reaching 69.26% in 2024 compared to 63.58% the previous year.

Endocrine, nutritional, and metabolic diseases, including diabetes mellitus, accounted for 2,362 institutional deaths in 2024. Experts point to lifestyle changes as major drivers of this growing diabetes epidemic, especially among children and young adults. Factors such as decreased physical activity, extended screen time, irregular sleep patterns, and diets rich in fast food and refined carbohydrates are contributing to increased prevalence.

Data from 2005 to 2024 reveals a total of 42,716 institutional deaths due to diabetes in Delhi. The 45-64 age group experienced the highest number of deaths, followed by those aged 65 and above. Notably, deaths among individuals aged 14 and below were higher in absolute numbers than in the 15-24 age group, indicating a concerning trend of early-onset diabetes.

Medical professionals emphasize that while genetics can predispose individuals, unhealthy eating habits, chronic stress, and physical inactivity are powerful triggers. They stress that diabetes is largely preventable and manageable through disciplined lifestyle choices, increased awareness, and early intervention, particularly by encouraging healthy habits from childhood.