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Gujarat Diabetes Risk Spreads Beyond Cities
14 Nov
Summary
- Diabetes risk is rising sharply in rural Gujarat, narrowing the urban-rural gap.
- Navsari and Anand show significant percentage point increases in high blood sugar.
- Lifestyle changes in rural areas are contributing to the rising diabetes prevalence.
The distinction between urban and rural diabetes risk is diminishing in Gujarat, with a notable rise in high blood sugar levels observed in non-urban areas over the past four years. The National Family Health Survey (NFHS)-6 data from 2023-24 reveals increased prevalence of elevated blood sugar among both men and women in rural settings.
Districts such as Navsari, Anand, and Gir Somnath have recorded significant increases in high blood sugar levels among men. Similarly, districts in South Gujarat like Dang, Valsad, and Navsari have seen a marked rise in affected women. This trend aligns with clinical observations that lifestyle changes in rural communities are mirroring those in urban centers.
Experts attribute this shift to altered lifestyles, including reduced physical activity and changes in dietary habits, even in previously less-affected areas. World Diabetes Day is observed on November 14th with a call for early action, underscoring the urgent need to address the growing diabetes burden across all demographics in Gujarat.
