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The lifestyle of individuals in India has seen considerable transformations in recent decades, resulting in various health outcomes that have inadvertently contributed to a quiet epidemic of metabolic disorders. This shift is particularly affecting Indian men, leading to an increased incidence of chronic health issues, including type 2 diabetes, obesity, hypertension, and cardiovascular diseases. Recent research indicates that approximately 26% of Indian men may suffer from metabolic syndrome or other related lifestyle disorders, which considerably elevate the risks for long-term complications and premature death. With these lifestyle-related health issues becoming more prevalent, impacting younger men across both urban and rural regions, it is crucial to comprehend and address this escalating health threat.
As we recognize Men’s Health Week, it serves as a vital opportunity to highlight these growing but often unnoticed risks. Dr. Ramesh Menon, Associate Director of Personal Genomics and Genomic Medicine at MedGenome in Bengaluru, discusses the potential dangers, the importance of initiating lifestyle adjustments early, and the necessity of regular health assessments.
Although metabolic disorders may not always be immediately life-threatening, they can act as subtle warnings for more severe cardiovascular occurrences like coronary artery disease and strokes, presenting significant health risks. Historically, these disorders have been connected with behaviors such as smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and a lack of physical activity, all of which contribute to metabolic dysfunction, especially among men. However, the causes now extend beyond these obvious factors.
Non-traditional elements, such as chronic stress and insufficient sleep, have emerged as significant contributors to metabolic disorders. Beyond their psychological implications, stress can trigger hormonal changes, notably increased cortisol levels, leading to insulin resistance, weight gain, and elevated blood pressure, which together result in metabolic disruption.
This intricate interaction of various factors results in a collective group of conditions termed metabolic disorders, including hypertension, obesity, type 2 diabetes, sleep issues, and fatty liver disease. These disorders heighten the risk of critical health crises like heart attacks and strokes, typically progressing without noticeable symptoms until substantial damage occurs.
A groundbreaking report released in 2023 by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) revealed a far higher occurrence of metabolic non-communicable diseases compared to previous estimates, emphasizing the immediate need to tackle metabolic disorders within the nation. This study also indicated a greater prevalence of such disorders in urban areas compared to rural ones, illustrating the effects of urbanization and lifestyle shifts. According to the National Family Health Survey conducted between 2019 and 2021, the prevalence of hypertension was found to be 30.3% among men and 28.6% among women, while diabetes affected 19.7% of men and 17.4% of women. While comprehensive reporting is lacking, data across different regions suggest that fatty liver disease is more common in men, with prevalence rates ranging from 24.6% to 76.6%, compared to 13.6% to 35.13% among women.
The National Academy of Medical Sciences (India) has indicated that non-communicable diseases (NCDs), which are generally found in individuals aged 55 and above in many developed nations, tend to emerge in India around a decade earlier, typically affecting those aged 45 and older. This rapid onset presents a distinct and urgent public health concern.
In addition to lifestyle and environmental influences, an individual’s genetic framework can also make them susceptible to metabolic conditions. Understanding one's genetic predispositions is one of the most valuable strategies for early intervention. Through genetic screening, it is possible to uncover inherited risks such as type 2 diabetes or hypertension, allowing people to make healthier lifestyle decisions.
Here are several lifestyle adjustments that can contribute to better health management:
Adopt a physically active routine: Regular physical activity, no matter the level of intensity, can significantly enhance insulin sensitivity, assist with weight control, and regulate blood pressure. The current guideline suggests aiming for 150 minutes of moderate exercise each week, along with daily physical activity.
Effectively manage stress: Incorporating mindfulness practices such as yoga, meditation, and spending time outdoors into your daily schedule can help alleviate and control stress levels.
Prioritize sufficient sleep: Adequate sleep is crucial for hormonal balance and metabolic control. Aim for seven to nine hours of quality sleep each night.
Schedule regular health check-ups: Proactive identification of health issues is essential. Regular monitoring of weight, cholesterol, blood pressure, and blood sugar can help detect potential problems early on, allowing for timely management.
Understand your family health history and genetic risks: Discuss your family’s health background with your physician, consider undergoing genetic testing, and engage in conversations about preventive measures tailored to your personal health profile.
By being aware of the risk factors, recognizing the role of genetics, and adopting proactive lifestyle changes, significant progress can be made towards preventing metabolic disorders.
