Dr. Kapil Sharma, Head of Endoscopy, Sarvodaya Hospital
Generally everyone suffers from stomach related diseases. These are called gastroenterological diseases. These diseases currently pose a serious public health problem in India. This disease occurs due to the increase in the country’s population, change in lifestyle and eating habits. This includes a wide range of problems, from common ailments such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) to more serious disorders such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), liver disease and gastrointestinal cancer. The increasing impact of these diseases underscores the need for a deeper understanding of the healthcare responses needed to address this challenge.
In India, the rise in gastroenterological diseases is closely related to urbanization, changes in diet and changes in lifestyle patterns. About 20% of the urban population suffers from GERD, the increase in which is due to obesity, high-fat diet and sedentary lifestyle. It is estimated that IBS affects between 4% and 22% of people, influenced by factors such as stress, eating habits and intestinal microbiota.
Meanwhile, IBD, which includes diseases such as Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, is becoming more prevalent, especially in urban areas, with prevalence rates ranging from 6 to 15 per 100,000. Liver diseases, including hepatitis B and C, alcoholic liver disease, and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), are of serious concern. The World Health Organization estimates that around 40 million people in India are chronically infected with hepatitis B. Additionally, India has one of the highest rates of gastrointestinal cancer globally, especially stomach and esophageal cancer, which It is often associated with tobacco use, dietary habits, and Helicobacter pylori infection.
Be alert for physical disorders.
Many factors contribute to the increasing burden of these diseases. The inclination toward a Western diet high in fats, sugars, and processed foods has been linked to conditions such as GERD and IBD. Urbanization has also resulted in a decrease in physical activity, leading to an increase in obesity and related gastrointestinal disorders. Additionally, higher levels of stress in urban environments are associated with a higher prevalence of IBS and other functional gastrointestinal disorders. Poor hygiene and sanitation habits further increase the risk of gastrointestinal infections, which can lead to serious illness.
India’s healthcare infrastructure faces significant challenges in managing these diseases. While urban areas often have better health facilities, rural areas often lack specialized care, leading to delays in diagnosis and treatment. There is also a serious lack of public awareness about gastroenterological diseases, making early detection and timely treatment difficult. Educational initiatives are necessary to inform communities about symptoms and preventive measures. Furthermore, the limited availability of comprehensive data on the prevalence and treatment of these diseases complicates public health responses and resource allocation.
Control mental stress
To effectively address the increasing burden of gastroenterological diseases, several strategies can be implemented. Public awareness campaigns focused on education about symptoms, preventive measures, and the importance of early medical consultation can greatly reduce the burden of the disease. Strengthening health infrastructure through telemedicine and mobile health units can improve health care delivery, especially in rural areas. Increased investment in research, including the establishment of documentation and monitoring systems, will improve the understanding and management of these diseases. Promoting healthy lifestyles through public health initiatives focused on nutrition, physical activity, and stress management can help reduce associated risk factors.
The landscape of gastroenterological diseases in India presents both challenges and opportunities. By recognizing the prevalence and impact of these diseases, increasing access to healthcare, and promoting public awareness, India can work to reduce the burden of these diseases and improve overall health outcomes. Building a healthy future requires collaborative efforts between health professionals, policymakers and communities.
Stay tuned for special programs on TV9 Digital
To discuss these topics in depth, TV9 Digital is organizing a special event with Dr. Kapil Sharma, Director of Gastroenterology and Head of Endoscopy, Sarvodaya Hospital, Delhi-NCR. With over 20 years of experience in this field, Dr. Sharma is a leading physician expert in advanced endoscopic techniques. This information session will cover important topics related to gastroenterological issues, identification, precautions and available medical support. Watch TV9 Network’s YouTube channel for this important debate. For more information or to schedule an appointment with Dr. Sharma, contact Sarvodaya Hospital, Sector-8, Faridabad at 18003131414 or visit sarvodayahospital.com.
