Over 6 Million Children in Maharashtra Affected by Non-Communicable Diseases: Experts

Rapid Summary

• Childhood non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are a rising concern in Maharashtra, threatening future health outcomes adn overburdening the healthcare system.
• Key NCD statistics for children:

– Over 6 million overweight children; 2.4 million obese.
– Annual cases: ~2,000 Type 1 diabetes, ~20,000 congenital heart disease.
– ~3.3 million living with asthma; ~8.8 million affected by mental health issues.

• Globally,NCDs account for 71% of deaths; in India,nearly two-thirds of deaths are linked to NCDs.
• Causes include poor lifestyles (dietary habits and physical inactivity), pollution exposure (for asthma), lack of preventive care during pregnancy, delayed diagnosis, and uneven access to treatment facilities.
• Experts recommend early intervention via school screenings, improved prenatal care education programs like breastfeeding advocacy and limiting sugary drinks/screen exposure.

Health Facilities/Services Upgrades

• Aid UNICEF partnerships aimed upgraded opening AIIMS Weekly clinics room sharper pioneering detection .

Indian Opinion Analysis