Long-term diseases, also known as chronic diseases, are classified as non-communicable diseases. They are called non-communicable diseases because they do not spread in the community through disease-causing germs; rather, they result from a combination of genetic, physiological, environmental, and behavioural or lifestyle factors.
Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are prevalent at large in developed as well as in the developing and poor countries; present almost equally among rich and poor nations, and are known causes of loss of young population as these diseases are striking at an early age, leading to << premature deaths>>. Diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, a variety of cancers, and respiratory diseases such as asthma are the most prevalent in society. Children, adults, elderly population are all vulnerable to NCDs. The main reasons being nutritional deficiencies, lack of physical activities, use of tobacco in various forms and consumption of high levels of alcohol. Apart from these factors, lack of sleep and stress are the other two important contributors. The current statistics on the rise of NCDs across the globe are alarming and worrying. Approximately 15 million deaths in the world have occurred between the age group of 30-69 years during the preceding year.
Unfortunately, all these diseases are the result of rapid industrialisation, urbanisation, practising unhealthy lifestyles, unhealthy diets, lack of physical activity, lack of recreational pursuits and, moreover, lack of sleep and adequate rest. Elevated blood pressure, increased blood sugar levels, obesity, and abnormal levels of blood lipids are all considered risk factors that can lead to a variety of chronic diseases. Longstanding chronic diseases lead to other complications and are a very significant burden on the health and well-being of an individual. Therefore, monitoring them with appropriate treatment and lifestyle changes is essential.
In this series, we will continue to discuss the specific disease and how we can prevent and manage various NCDs.
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