Effect of Lifestyle on Prevention of Non Communicable Diseases

Non communicable diseases (NCDs) are usually caused by genetic or lifestyle factors. NCDs has four types cardiovascular diseases, cancers, diabetes and chronic respiratory diseases account for almost two-thirds of all deaths globally, with 80 per cent of these occurring in low- and middle-income countries. The most obvious change among the global health transitions has been the rising burden of non- communicable diseases [NCDs] in the developing world and leading cause of death. Of the 57 million global deaths in 2008, 36 million (63 %) were due to NCDs. Poor dietary quality (in particular, high salt intake, high saturated and trans-fatty acid intake, and low fruit and vegetable consumption) and insufficient physical activity are key risk factors for NCD development and mortality worldwide. Indeed, India appears to be the most affected as there is a rising trend in the prevalence of NCDs, particularly diabetes, coronary artery disease and hypertension. India currently leads the world with 35 million people with diabetes and these numbers are expected to reach 80 million by 2030. Strong evidence shows that sedentary lifestyle increases the risk of many adverse health conditions, including major non-communicable diseases such as coronary heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and breast and colon cancers, and shortens life expectancy. Despite evidence indicating that proper levels of physical activity are associated with a 30 % reduction in the risk of ischemic heart disease, a 27 % reduction in the risk of diabetes, and a 21 %25 % reduction in the risk of breast and colon cancer, approximately 3.2 million deaths each year are attributable to insufficient physical activity. Health information and communication strategies, fiscal measures, and regulatory measures for marketing or provision of nutrition information to children that promotes healthy eating and physical activity were found to yield substantial and cost-effective health gains.