Hyd's Diabetes Bill: Rs 10,000 per person

HEMA SINGULURI I hyderabad

Indians spend an average of Rs 10,000 per person annually on diabetes treatment, and the number in Hyderabad is growing exponentially. Hyderabad and the wider Telangana region are witnessing a steady increase in diabetes cases, with prevalence rates approaching 14%—nearly twice the national average. India is already home to an estimated 90 million adults living with diabetes, and public health experts warn that the numbers are likely to climb further with rapid urbanisation and changing lifestyles. Doctors blame lifestyle changes that are accelerating the onset of the condition.

Rising Costs

On average, an urban patient spends around Rs 10,000 annually on diabetes care, including medicines and routine monitoring. However, expenses can rise sharply when specialist consultations, advanced medications and treatment for complications become necessary, often reaching Rs 20,000 to Rs 50,000 or more each year. Dependence on private healthcare in cities such as Hyderabad is a major contributor to out-of-pocket expenditure.

No longer a disease of middle age

Doctors note a worrying shift in age patterns. Earlier, diabetes was largely associated with people aged 40 to 50 and above. Today, it is increasingly being diagnosed among individuals in their 20s and 30s, and in some cases even younger patients. Experts attribute this trend to sedentary lifestyles, increased consumption of processed foods and excessive screen time among children and adolescents.

South Indians more vulnerable

Several studies point to the "Asian Indian phenotype," under which individuals tend to accumulate abdominal fat even at lower Body Mass Index (BMI) levels, increasing insulin resistance. Lower levels of protective hormones such as adiponectin can place additional stress on the pancreas, contributing to an earlier onset of metabolic disorders. However, doctors say genetics alone cannot explain the sharp increase in cases. Urban lifestyles, particularly among IT professionals, are also playing a significant role.

Dr. E. Ravi Shanker, Consultant Endocrinologist at Apollo Hospitals, Hyderabad, said the rise in diabetes cases is not surprising given the lifestyle changes witnessed over the past decade. "The way lifestyles have changed, I won't be surprised if there is a significant increase in diabetes cases," he said.

He added that genetics alone cannot account for the surge. "Genes don't change in a decade. We need to look at diet, physical activity, sleep patterns and even meal timings. Late-night dinners, irregular sleep, smoking and sedentary habits all contribute."

Dr. Ravi Shanker also highlighted urban working conditions, including IT jobs and night shifts, as important risk factors.

"Young people are increasingly adopting lifestyle patterns shaped by their parents, workplaces and digital habits. Many alter their sleep schedules because of screen time and other lifestyle choices," he said.