Diabetes Landscape in India
Welcome to the latest edition of 1Lattice Mirror, where we delve into the complex and evolving landscape of diabetes in India, exploring the challenges, innovations, and opportunities in the fight against this chronic disease.
The burden of diabetes extends beyond individual health, impacting families, communities, and healthcare systems. Complications such as cardiovascular disease, kidney failure, neuropathy, and blindness impose significant economic and social costs, exacerbating the healthcare burden in India.
According to the Indian Council of Medical Research–India Diabetes (ICMR-INDIAB) study published in 2023, the number of Indians with diabetes increased to 101 million in 2021 from 70 million diabetics in 2019 accounting for a 44 percent increase. The study also reported that the overall weighted prevalence of diabetes in India was 11.4 percent with a significantly higher prevalence in urban areas at 16.4 percent when compared to rural areas at 8.9 percent.
Rising disposable income for the growing middle class and sedentary lifestyle practices are likely to be the major causes for the higher prevalence of diabetes in urban India. A lack of proactive public measures will also increase diabetes prevalence in rural areas in the next five years.
In India, the management of diabetes involves a multi-faceted approach, and the roles of pharmaceutical companies, medical technology (MedTech) firms, and healthcare service providers are crucial in addressing the various aspects of diabetes care. The pharmaceutical formulations market for anti-diabetes drugs is valued at~2.1 B USD with a 9% share of the IPM and growing at a CAGR of 8%.
Ensuring access to affordable and high-quality medications is essential in diabetes care. Pharmaceutical companies can contribute by manufacturing generic versions of essential drugs, implementing patient assistance programs, and collaborating with healthcare providers to improve medication adherence. Medtech companies develop and supply diagnostic tools and devices for diabetes management, including glucometers, continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) systems, insulin pumps, and injection devices. These technologies enable patients to monitor their blood glucose levels, track trends, and adjust their treatment regimens accordingly.
Diabetes management often requires a multidisciplinary approach involving endocrinologists, primary care physicians, dietitians, nurses, pharmacists, and other healthcare professionals. Healthcare service providers collaborate to deliver comprehensive and coordinated care that addresses the medical, nutritional, psychological, and social aspects of diabetes.
The Indian government has launched several initiatives and programs to address the diabetes burden, including the National Programme for Prevention and Control of Cancer, Diabetes, Cardiovascular Diseases, and Stroke (NPCDCS). Policy interventions such as sugar taxation, food labeling regulations, and the promotion of healthy lifestyles are also being explored to mitigate the risk factors associated with diabetes.
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Education and awareness play a crucial role in combating diabetes. Community-based initiatives, public health campaigns, and patient support groups are raising awareness about diabetes prevention, early detection, lifestyle modifications, and adherence to treatment regimens.
The fight against diabetes requires a collaborative and multi-stakeholder approach involving government agencies, healthcare providers, pharmaceutical companies, research institutions, civil society organizations, and individuals. By leveraging collective expertise, resources, and partnerships, we can develop holistic strategies to prevent, diagnose, and manage diabetes more effectively.
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Best regards,
Sanjay Sachdeva
Director- Healthcare & Lifesciences 1Lattice