World Diabetes Day 2025: India Faces Growing Diabetes Epidemic

MUMBAI, India — November 14 marks World Diabetes Day, a day dedicated to raising awareness about the rapidly increasing rates of diabetes and the importance of a healthy lifestyle. India, often referred to as the diabetes capital of the world, faces a significant health crisis, making it crucial to understand how to mitigate this risk.

Diabetes, traditionally seen as a condition affecting middle-aged and older individuals, is now alarmingly affecting younger generations. Dr. Abhinav Kumar Gupta, a senior consultant in endocrinology and diabetes at Narayana Hospital in Jaipur, reveals that new cases are increasingly diagnosed in individuals as young as 20 to 35 years old. He emphasized the urgent need to address this situation, noting that lifestyle and genetic factors play major roles in the disease’s prevalence.

Dr. Gupta explained that busy career demands often lead young adults to neglect exercise and maintain poor dietary habits, which contribute to the risk of developing diabetes. He mentioned, “Most young people don’t even realize they have diabetes until a check-up. Signs can include fatigue, healing issues with cuts, and excessive thirst, but these are often ignored until people discover their blood sugar levels are dangerously high.”

If left unchecked, diabetes can lead to severe complications, including eye damage, nerve issues, and kidney problems. Dr. Gupta recommends reducing carbohydrates and excessive fats in diets to help manage blood sugar levels.

Moreover, lifestyle coach Nidhi Nahata, founder of Justbe, advocates for simple dietary modifications that can stabilize blood sugar levels. She encourages people to tweak traditional Indian meals for healthier alternatives, emphasizing that diabetic-friendly meals don’t require a complete diet overhaul.

As the number of diabetes cases continues to rise, experts stress the importance of dietary awareness and physical activity. Clear guidance on choosing low glycemic index foods and enhancing traditional dishes with healthier ingredients can make a significant difference in managing diabetes. Individuals are urged to make informed choices that promote overall health and well-being.