Post by : Saif Rahman

There’s an alarming surge in type 2 diabetes among young Indians, a concern that can no longer be overlooked. Dr. Vijay Negalur, a respected diabetologist at KIMS Hospitals in Thane with over 45 years of expertise, warns that millennials—individuals in their 20s, 30s, and early 40s—are being diagnosed with diabetes at a disturbing frequency. Once deemed a condition of older individuals, type 2 diabetes is now increasingly common among younger populations due to rapidly changing lifestyles, stress, and unhealthy daily habits.

Dr. Negalur highlights that India faces one of the highest diabetes burdens globally. The rising rates among younger adults signal deeper societal issues at play. Long working hours, hectic schedules, and contemporary lifestyles have gradually sidelined healthier routines. Consequently, this leads to poor metabolic health, flagging the risk of early-onset diabetes.

A primary driver of this trend is the sedentary nature of modern life. Many millennials spend lengthy hours sitting—be it at desks, in front of screens, or stuck in traffic. The human body has evolved for movement, but increasingly sedentary habits hinder glucose utilization by muscles. This creates insulin resistance, resulting in elevated blood sugar levels. Over time, the pancreas struggles to compensate, contributing to diabetes. Even remote work coupled with short commutes diminishes the overall physical activity.

Eating habits are similarly deteriorating. Dr. Negalur notes that convenience-driven access to fast food, sugary drinks, and processed snacks is overtaking home-cooked meals. Late-night snacking, meal skipping, and opting for ready-to-eat foods due to busy schedules are all on the rise. These foods, often rich in sugars and simple carbohydrates, lead to immediate spikes in blood sugar and promote abdominal fat accumulation, a notable indicator of developing metabolic issues. Even seemingly “healthy” options can hide sugars or preservatives, complicating regular consumption.

Lack of sleep presents another significant challenge. Many millennials sacrifice sleep for work commitments, social media, or entertainment. Dr. Negalur points out that insufficient sleep disrupts insulin response, heightens hunger, and elevates stress hormones, resulting in weight gain and difficulty managing blood sugar levels.

Stress is another considerable factor. Financial strains, work pressures, relationship issues, and constant online comparisons contribute to a uniquely stressed generation. Elevated stress increases cortisol levels, which raises blood sugar and drives cravings for unhealthy comfort foods. Long-term stress correlates with inflammation and abdominal fat increase, both heightening diabetes risk.

Dr. Negalur also notes the impact of environmental factors like pollution, toxic exposures, and genetic predispositions. Those with a family history of diabetes must be particularly vigilant. Early onset of diabetes can lead to a lifetime of complications including heart disease, kidney problems, nerve damage, and impaired vision. Hence, early detection and preventive measures are critical.

The diabetologist encouraged millennials to proactively manage their health before serious complications arise. Gradual, consistent changes can yield significant health benefits. Regular physical activity, healthier dietary choices, adequate sleep, and stress management can lower diabetes risk and enhance overall health. As the nation grapples with increasing diabetes cases, it is vital for young adults to recognize the threat and respond promptly before it’s too late.

#Health #Wellness