India’s healthcare system has seen progress, but persistent challenges still hinder its development, according to the World Health Organization’s (WHO) Annual Report 2024. The report points out critical issues such as climate change, non-communicable diseases (NCDs), and regional disparities that continue to impact the healthcare system.
The Growing Epidemic of NCDs
WHO Representative to India, Dr. Roderico H. Ofrin, acknowledged the country’s progress in battling diseases like tuberculosis and expanding immunization. However, he noted that there are still significant barriers, particularly in reaching underserved populations and addressing the increasing burden of NCDs.
NCDs, including diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease, are now the leading contributors to India’s disease burden, with millions undergoing treatment. WHO estimates that over 58.6 million people were being treated for NCDs in 2024, reflecting a 15% rise from the previous year. Despite the growing numbers, the underlying causes of these diseases remain largely unaddressed. Factors like urbanization, poor diets, sedentary lifestyles, and pollution are all contributing to the rise of NCDs. Dr. Ofrin emphasized the need to shift focus from treatment to prevention by addressing lifestyle and environmental factors.
WHO supports initiatives like the National Programme for Prevention and Control of Cancer, Diabetes, Cardiovascular Diseases, and Stroke (NPCDCS) to improve early detection and screening. However, the rapidly changing urban lifestyle continues to drive the rise of these conditions.
The Vector-Borne Disease Challenge
In addition to the growing NCD epidemic, India faces increasing outbreaks of vector-borne diseases like dengue. While malaria control has improved, dengue remains a significant issue, especially in urban centers such as Mumbai, Delhi, and Bengaluru. The WHO report highlights that dengue outbreaks have become more frequent, with health infrastructure often stretched during peak seasons.
Dr. Ofrin noted that changing weather patterns and climate change are significantly influencing the spread of these diseases. Factors such as urbanization, poor sanitation, and inadequate disease surveillance and vector control make outbreaks harder to manage. WHO is working with India’s National Vector Borne Disease Control Programme to combat the rise in cases, but addressing the root causes remains critical.
The Threat of Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR)
Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is another growing global health threat, and India is among the countries most affected by it. AMR occurs when pathogens become resistant to common antibiotics, making infections more difficult to treat. Overuse of antibiotics in both human and veterinary medicine is a key contributor to the rise of AMR in India.
WHO is collaborating with the Indian government on the National Action Plan on Antimicrobial Resistance (NAP-AMR) to promote better antibiotic use and infection control. However, the report stresses that more needs to be done to curb unnecessary antibiotic prescriptions and improve infection prevention in healthcare settings.
Healthcare Infrastructure and Equity Challenges
India’s expanding population is putting increasing pressure on the healthcare system. The WHO report stresses the importance of building resilient healthcare systems capable of managing both infectious and non-communicable diseases, especially in the context of climate change and natural disasters. While digital health initiatives like the National Digital Health Mission and the Integrated Health Information Platform have made strides, the need for stronger healthcare infrastructure remains urgent.
Dr. Ofrin concluded, “India’s healthcare system must be adaptable and resilient. We need to prepare for health emergencies, not just respond to them. Building resilience in healthcare infrastructure, particularly in rural and remote areas, is essential.”
I don’t think the title of your article matches the content lol. Just kidding, mainly because I had some doubts after reading the article.