While Kashmir's tranquil valley captivates the world with its beauty, a silent epidemic is quietly taking its toll on the valley's healthcare system. Lifestyle-related diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and obesity are on the rise in this region, posing a serious threat to public health. It is imperative that we take immediate action to prevent and combat these diseases before they become endemic in Kashmir.
The lifestyle changes witnessed in Kashmir over the past few decades have been profound. Traditional diets rich in fresh fruits, vegetables, and whole grains are being replaced by processed foods high in sugar, salt, and unhealthy fats. A sedentary lifestyle has become the norm, and physical activity has taken a backseat to the demands of modern life. These behavioral changes have paved the way for the spread of many preventable diseases in the region.
The implications of this change are serious and alarming. Chronic diseases such as diabetes and hypertension are increasingly affecting young people and placing a strain on families and healthcare systems alike. Treatment of these diseases incurs significant economic costs, placing additional strain on already fragile health infrastructure.
Millions of people around the world suffer from various lifestyle-related diseases. If these diseases remain unchecked for long periods of time, they can lead to many chronic diseases and life-threatening consequences. Several reports have revealed that over 60% of all deaths in India are attributable to lifestyle or non-communicable diseases. The increase in lifestyle-related diseases has become a major public health problem around the world, placing a huge burden on medical services.
The Kashmir Valley is witnessing a sharp rise in lifestyle diseases, especially among the younger generation. These types of illnesses and health disorders will no doubt lead to more ways for us to adapt to new patterns and lifestyles. Everyone knows that an abnormal increase in weight in a person is due to unnecessary accumulation of fat in the body. Additionally, anyone suffering from lifestyle diseases is more vulnerable to many other health risks, including heart disease, psychological trauma, and even cancer.
The eat more, work less philosophy makes things worse, to say the least. We are experiencing rapid changes in the way we eat food. The majority of our young generation is addicted to sweet foods, fast foods such as burgers and pizza. These foods contain a lot of calories and cause obesity and other diseases. If necessary and urgent measures are not taken to restore traditional eating habits among people, especially the younger generation, we will face major problems in the future. We all share the responsibility of educating people about the negative effects of lifestyle diseases.
Preventing lifestyle-related diseases in Kashmir requires a multi-pronged approach that addresses the root causes of the problem. Education and awareness campaigns play an important role in informing the public about the risks associated with unhealthy lifestyle choices and enabling individuals to make informed decisions about their health. Schools, community centers, and health facilities need to work together to promote healthy eating and regular physical activity from an early age.
Additionally, health professionals and policy makers must prioritize public health efforts that create environments conducive to healthy living. This includes introducing regulations to limit the availability of unhealthy foods. We promote urban planning that encourages walking and cycling, and invest in recreational facilities that make physical activity available to all residents.
Individuals also have a responsibility to take care of their own health and well-being. Making small changes like choosing to walk instead of driving, choosing whole foods over processed foods, and prioritizing sleep and stress management can have a big impact on long-term health outcomes. .
Prevention of lifestyle-related diseases in Kashmir is not an insurmountable challenge, but it requires concerted efforts and cooperation from all stakeholders. By working together to promote a culture of health and well-being, we can ensure that Kashmir's beauty is not overshadowed by preventable diseases. Now is the time to act before it's too late.
Let us work together to make Kashmir healthier for generations to come.
(The author is a health advocate and concerned citizen)