Nearly 1 In 2 Indians Tested Exhibit Abnormal Blood Glucose Levels: Thyrocare Study

Thyrocare Technologies has unveiled a research report spotlighting the alarming prevalence of diabetes and prediabetes in India. The study, based on HbA1c test results from 1,966,449 adults undergoing routine health checkups in 2023, reveals that 49.43 per cent of those tested displayed abnormal blood glucose levels. Among them, 22.25 per cent were identified as prediabetic, while 27.18 per cent were diagnosed with diabetes. These findings position diabetes as a burgeoning "pandemic in the making," emphasising the urgency for comprehensive public health interventions.

Key Findings of the Study

1. High Prevalence Across Regions

The study sheds light on regional disparities in the prevalence of diabetes and prediabetes. Odisha reported the highest rates of both conditions, whereas Jammu & Kashmir recorded the lowest. This variation highlights the need for region-specific healthcare initiatives to address the disparities effectively.

2. Dietary Habits and Disease Prevalence

Dietary patterns emerged as a critical factor influencing disease prevalence. States with high rice consumption showed elevated rates of diabetes and prediabetes, whereas states with predominantly wheat-based diets exhibited lower prevalence. These findings underline the significant role of nutrition in managing disease risk and prevention strategies.

3. Gender and Age Trends

Males had a higher diabetes prevalence (30.84 per cent) compared to females (23.51 per cent), while prediabetes was nearly balanced between genders.

The burden of diabetes was most pronounced among individuals aged 65 and above. Alarmingly, the economically active age group (36–65 years) also showed rising prevalence, indicating a potential impact on workforce productivity.

Young adults aged 18–35 were more prone to prediabetes than diabetes, suggesting a high potential for progression to diabetes if preventive measures are not adopted.

4. Healthcare and Socioeconomic Challenges

The report warns of significant challenges for India's healthcare infrastructure, coupled with the financial strain on individuals. It calls for widespread awareness campaigns and routine screenings to tackle undiagnosed cases effectively.

5. Screening and Policy Recommendations

The use of HbA1c testing, a stable and reliable marker for long-term glucose monitoring, was a cornerstone of this research. Thyrocare emphasises the need for routine testing, mass screening, and targeted preventive strategies in high-burden regions.

Expert Perspectives

Rahul Guha, MD & CEO of Thyrocare Technologies Ltd. and President of API Holdings, stated, "This study highlights the silent but alarming rise of diabetes and prediabetes in India. Prioritising regular testing, education, and region-specific interventions is essential. We hope this research drives meaningful action in public health policy and encourages proactive disease prevention."

Dr. Preet Kaur, Vice President - Lab Operations and Quality at Thyrocare Technologies, added,"Our findings reveal the critical role of lifestyle in disease prevalence. Through this research, we aim to inspire stronger data-driven policies and widespread public awareness to curb the diabetes epidemic."

The findings, published in the Diabetes Research and Clinical Practice journal, serve as a clarion call for India to combat the diabetes epidemic. Through sustained efforts in public education, lifestyle modification, and universal screening programs, India can address this growing health crisis effectively.