Studycentre

A recent study has indicated that non-communicable diseases (NCDs) like heart attack, stroke, chronic respiratory diseases, and cancer account for 6 out of 10 deaths (61.8%) in India. This is alarming given the fact that the figure was 37.9% almost two decades ago. This was also the time when more than half of the deaths (53.6%) were due to communicable, maternal, neonatal, and nutritional diseases.

NCDs are diseases of long duration and generally slow progression. The four main types of noncommunicable diseases are cardiovascular diseases (like heart attacks and stroke), cancer, chronic respiratory diseases (such as chronic obstructed pulmonary disease and asthma) and diabetes.

The study has outlined that there is likely to be a steady rise in NCD losses until 2030, and then it will increase sharply.

A few simple ways to increase physical activity

• Take the stairs as often as possible.
• Get off the bus one stop early and walk the rest of the way.
• Have walk-meetings instead of sit-in meetings.
• Walk to the nearby shops instead of driving.
• Walk while talking on the phone.
• Walk down to speak to your colleague instead of using the intercom/phone.
• Walk around your building for a break during the work day or during lunch.
• Buy a pedometre.
• Walk 80 minutes each day; brisk walk 80 minutes a week with a speed of 80 steps per minute.

— Courtesy Indian Medical Association