Why diabetes is striking youth?

By Dr Utkarsh Shah
Internal Medicine Specialist

Diabetes in India is no longer just an older adult's disease. Rising numbers of young adults in their 20s and 30s are being diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes, posing a serious social and economic threat. The ICMR-INDIAB 2023 study estimates 101 million Indians have diabetes, with 136 million pre-diabetic. Early-onset diabetes progresses faster, leading to complications like heart disease, kidney failure, stroke, and vision loss at a younger age.

---

Why are young Indians becoming diabetic?

The reasons are deeply rooted in today's lifestyle:

High-carb diets & processed foods: Urban and semi-urban young adults rely heavily on refined carbohydrates—white rice, wheat products, bakery snacks, and sugary beverages.

Sedentary living: Desk jobs, long screen time, online gaming, and decreased physical activity have led to chronic calorie surplus.

Stress & poor sleep: Competitive work environments and irregular sleep cycles disrupt insulin regulation.

Genetic vulnerability: Indians have a higher tendency for insulin resistance even at lower BMI levels. Young Indians gain abdominal fat easily, driving metabolic disease early.

Obesity epidemic: Childhood and adolescent obesity rates are rising sharply, setting the stage for diabetes much earlier in life.

---

Hidden danger: No symptoms for years

Most young adults do not experience obvious symptoms initially. Many present late with complications like severe fatigue, numbness, sudden weight changes, frequent infections, or even early heart issues. Delayed diagnosis leads to faster decline of pancreatic function.

---

What should youngs do?

• Annual screening from age 25 (earlier if there is family history, PCOS, obesity).
• 30–45 minutes of daily physical activity—walking, cycling, or gym.
• Balanced meals rich in vegetables, dal, whole grains, nuts, and protein.
• Avoid sugary drinks and packaged snacks—the biggest driver of spikes.
• Sleep 7–8 hours and maintain fixed timing.
• Manage stress through yoga, meditation, deep breathing, or outdoor sports.

---

Published in Lokmat Times, Nagpur Main, Page No. 8, Nov 27, 2025