Thyrocare has released a research report providing insights into the prevalence of diabetes and prediabetes across India. The study analysed HbA1c test results from 1,966,449 adults undergoing routine health check-ups in 2023. It revealed that 49.43 per cent of the tested population exhibited abnormal blood glucose levels, with 22.25 per cent identified as prediabetic and 27.18 per cent as diabetic. The findings highlight diabetes as a growing concern, described as a “pandemic in the making.”
The study underscores the regional disparities in diabetes and prediabetes prevalence. Odisha reported the highest rates, while Jammu & Kashmir recorded the lowest. These findings point to the need for region-specific health programmes to address disparities in disease burden.
A correlation between dietary habits and diabetes prevalence was observed. States with higher rice consumption recorded greater incidence of diabetes and prediabetes, while states with predominantly wheat-based diets showed lower prevalence rates. The study emphasises the role of diet in disease management.
Gender and age trends were also analysed. Diabetes prevalence was higher in males (30.84 per cent) compared to females (23.51 per cent), while prediabetes rates were similar between genders. The highest diabetes burden was found in individuals aged 65 and above, with increasing prevalence observed in those aged 36-65. Among young adults aged 18-35, prediabetes prevalence exceeded diabetes rates, indicating a high risk of future disease development.
The report highlights socioeconomic and healthcare challenges posed by the diabetes burden, warning of strain on healthcare infrastructure and individual finances. It advocates regular screening and awareness campaigns to address the impact of undiagnosed cases.
The research utilised HbA1c testing to underscore the importance of routine glucose monitoring. The findings call for targeted preventive measures in high-burden regions, focusing on lifestyle changes and public health education.
Rahul Guha, MD & CEO of Thyrocare Technologies and President of API Holdings, stated, “This study sheds light on the silent but alarming rise of diabetes and prediabetes in India. With nearly half the tested population exhibiting abnormal glucose levels, it is imperative to prioritise regular testing, mass screening, and early detection. These efforts, combined with education and region-specific interventions, are crucial to curbing this epidemic. The role of diet in disease management cannot be understated, and we hope this research sparks meaningful action in public health policy and promotes a more proactive approach to disease prevention and management.”
Dr Preet Kaur, Vice President – Lab Operations and Quality at Thyrocare Technologies , stated, “This research provides a critical lens through which we can view the diabetes epidemic in India. The geographical and dietary trends revealed in this study demonstrate the significant impact of lifestyle on disease prevalence. Our goal with this research is to inspire not only greater public awareness but also stronger data-driven healthcare policies that prioritise early detection and preventive strategies.”
The findings, published in the scientific journal Diabetes Research and Clinical Practice, call for sustained efforts in education, lifestyle transformation, and universal screening programmes to combat diabetes in India.