72% in South India prioritise balanced diet

Metro India News | Hyderabad 

ManipalCigna Health Insurance has released the South India findings of its India Health Quotient (IHQ) 2026, a proprietary index that assesses physical, mental, financial, occupational and social wellbeing. The study surveyed urban residents across 16 cities, including Chennai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Kochi and Coimbatore.

India's overall health score stands at 65 out of 100, while South India scored 63 out of 100. Nationwide, physical health emerged as the strongest dimension with a score of 68, while financial health lagged at 62, the lowest across all dimensions, highlighting the need for greater attention.

In South India, 72% of respondents said they prioritise a healthy, balanced diet, compared with 65% in the rest of the country. The figure rises to 75% in Bengaluru and Hyderabad, reflecting healthier lifestyle choices. However, mental wellbeing remains a concern, with only 49% reporting focus and clarity of mind and 47% expressing confidence in adapting to sudden change.

The study identified health insurance as a key predictor of overall wellbeing. Insured individuals scored 68 out of 100 on the India Health Quotient, compared with 62 out of 100 for the uninsured. The six-point gap remained consistent across regions, age groups, gender, stress levels, and physical, mental and financial wellbeing.

The "Wellbeing Premium" associated with health insurance exceeded differences based on gender, region and age. Men and women both scored 65, while Mumbai and Bengaluru scored 62 and 63, respectively. The youngest and oldest age groups scored 63 and 65, indicating that insurance had a stronger association with wellbeing than demographic factors.

Sapna Desai, Chief Marketing Officer, ManipalCigna Health Insurance, said the India Health Quotient highlights that health extends beyond physical fitness to include mental, financial, occupational and social wellbeing. She noted South India's strong emphasis on balanced diets and said health insurance plays an important role in narrowing wellbeing gaps.