Zerodha co-founder and CEO Nithin Kamath has once again raised serious concerns about India’s growing health crisis, this time focusing on the sharp rise in soft drink consumption and its direct link to the country’s escalating diabetes epidemic. Taking to X (formerly Twitter), Kamath cited insights from a beverage maker’s earnings call that revealed Indians are consuming more sugary drinks than ever before. He warned that India is now “at the epicentre of the global diabetes epidemic,” a statement backed by alarming statistics. Kamath has been vocal on this issue in the past, describing diabetes as a “ticking time bomb” in a previous post. His recent statements shine a spotlight on the urgent need to rethink public health priorities as lifestyle diseases increasingly affect the nation’s youth.

Diabetes No Longer a ‘Rich Man’s Disease

Kamath highlighted a common misconception that diabetes is a condition limited to the affluent. Today, however, the reality is far more grim and widespread. According to recent studies, India is home to the largest diabetic population in the world, with over 21 crore people currently living with the condition. What’s even more concerning is that a significant portion of this population remains unaware of their illness. Nearly 27.5% of people with diabetes don’t know they have it, while many of those who are aware still go without treatment. This widespread lack of diagnosis and care only serves to deepen the national health crisis, particularly in economically weaker sections where health literacy is low and access to care is limited.

Youth at High Risk: Shocking Lifetime Statistics

One of the most distressing insights Kamath shared was the increased vulnerability among India’s younger population. Urban lifestyle changes have created a dangerous environment for the youth. A recent study cited by Kamath reveals that a 20-year-old woman in an Indian city now faces a 64.6% lifetime risk of developing diabetes. For young men, the lifetime risk stands at 55.5%. These numbers point to an impending health disaster if immediate action isn’t taken. Increased screen time, sedentary jobs, processed food intake, and excessive consumption of sugary beverages are collectively pushing India’s younger generation towards chronic lifestyle diseases. It’s a silent epidemic growing under the radar—and it demands national attention.

Financial Burden and Healthcare Gaps

Kamath also touched upon a crucial but often overlooked aspect of the diabetes crisis—the financial strain it places on households. Less than 20% of Indians have health insurance, meaning most people must rely on out-of-pocket expenses for diagnosis, medication, and treatment. For lower-income groups, this creates a dangerous cycle of poor health and worsening poverty. The burden is not just personal but systemic, with economic implications that could affect the country’s long-term development. Kamath emphasized the importance of including diabetes care in public health insurance programs and the need for stronger government-backed health coverage, especially for the poor and vulnerable.

The Way Forward: A Collective Call to Action

While Kamath acknowledged that there is no single solution to this crisis, he stressed the importance of a multi-pronged approach. From public awareness campaigns and early detection programs to lifestyle changes and policy reform, a collective effort is required. Kamath encouraged simple but impactful actions—like adding five minutes of physical activity each day or reducing sitting time—to lower the risk of diabetes. He also revealed that Zerodha is actively supporting startups that aim to improve public health. However, he insists that this is a systemic issue requiring participation from individuals, communities, businesses, and the government. Only a coordinated response can prevent diabetes from becoming India’s defining public health disaster.

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Source : timesofindia.indiatimes.com