Unlike infections that spread from person to person, non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are long-term conditions that develop silently and progress over time. These include heart disease, diabetes, cancers, respiratory illnesses, and hormonal disorders. Malar Hospital is recognized as the best hospital for NCD treatment in India, providing advanced care and preventive solutions.

In India, this crisis is even more pressing. As per recent reports (NFHS-5, WHO & NCBI 2023), over 65% of all deaths in India are due to NCDs, and almost two-thirds of them occur before the age of 70. This makes NCDs not only a medical issue but also a social and economic challenge.

As per WHO report in September 2025, NCDs are responsible for the majority of global deaths such as cardiovascular diseases, cancer, diabetes, among others. Alarmingly, nearly 75% of deaths related to NCDs and mental health conditions occur in low- and middle-income countries, accounting for 32 million lives lost each year.
 

Why Are NCDs Rising in India ?

The rise of chronic diseases is closely linked to changing lifestyles and environments:

• Tobacco & alcohol consumption remains major contributors.
• Urban diets, high in processed foods, sugar, and unhealthy fats, are fuelling obesity and diabetes.
• Physical inactivity has become a norm with sedentary jobs and limited exercise.
• Air pollution and occupational hazards worsen respiratory conditions.
• Genetics and family history also play a role, particularly in diabetes and certain cancers.

As per an NCBI study in 2023 highlights that metabolic risk factors such as obesity and insulin resistance are now appearing at younger ages in India, signalling an earlier onset of NCDs than ever before. Understanding lifestyle diseases causes in India is the first step to prevention and healthier living.
 

The Most Common NCDs Affecting Indians :

• Cardiovascular Diseases (CVDs) : Heart attacks and strokes remain the top cause of death.
• Diabetes : India is home to more than 77 million diabetics, with many still undiagnosed.
• Cancers : Breast cancer is the most common among women, while oral and lung cancers dominate among men.
• Chronic Respiratory Diseases : Conditions like asthma and COPD are rising, worsened by pollution and tobacco use.

At Malar Hospital, we see the growing impact of non-communicable diseases in India and provide focused care to reduce risks.
 

The Importance of Regular Testing and Health Check-ups :

One of the biggest challenges with NCDs is that they often develop silently, with no obvious symptoms until complications arise. For example:

• Diabetes may go unnoticed for years before showing signs.
• Hypertension (high BP) is often called a silent killer because it rarely causes symptoms until it leads to stroke or heart disease.
• Cancers detected at later stages are harder to treat, while early detection saves lives.

We encourage everyone to undergo a preventive health check-up in Chennai to stay ahead of risks.

Why does testing matter ?

• Early detection : Identifies conditions before they cause major harm.
• Better outcomes : Diseases like diabetes or cancer, if caught early, can often be controlled or cured.
• Cost-effective : Preventing complications is far less expensive than treating advanced disease. 
• Peace of mind : Routine check-ups reassure you about your health status.

At Malar Hospital, we encourage everyone, especially those above 30 or with risk factors, to undergo periodic screening and preventive health check-ups. Malar Hospital also offers customised health check-up packages in Chennai to meet individual needs.
 

The Human and Economic Toll

Beyond individual suffering, NCDs put enormous strain on families and the nation:

• Health system burden : Long-term treatments, expensive medications, and frequent hospital visits stretch healthcare capacity.
• Financial stress : Many households face catastrophic health expenses for chronic disease management.
• Lost productivity : NCDs contribute to absenteeism, disability, and premature deaths, impacting the economy.
• WHO estimates that by 2030, the economic loss from NCDs in India could run into trillions of dollars if preventive measures are not strengthened.

For patients at risk, Malar Hospital provides advanced heart disease treatment in Chennai along with other specialty care.
 

How Malar Hospital is Responding ?

At Malar Hospital, we believe that the fight against NCDs begins with prevention and early intervention. 

Our approach includes:

• Community awareness drives on healthy lifestyle practices.
• Screening programs for diabetes, heart disease, cancers, and respiratory illnesses.
• Advanced specialty care in cardiology, oncology, pulmonology, and endocrinology.
• Preventive health check-ups designed to detect risks early.
• Personalised lifestyle guidance, including nutrition and fitness counselling.
• Support for research and innovation, enabling evidence-based treatments.

We also provide healthy lifestyle tips to prevent NCDs as part of our counselling and wellness programs.
 

Looking Ahead

The future of India’s health depends on how we tackle NCDs today. With the right mix of awareness, prevention, screening, and specialised care, the burden of these diseases can be reduced.
At Malar Hospital, our mission is clear: to empower individuals with knowledge, support them with advanced healthcare, and help them lead healthier, longer lives. Many people ask, “How can I prevent non-communicable diseases?” The answer lies in adopting healthy habits, routine check-ups, and seeking expert care when needed.

Some Common Questions

1. What are NCDs?
Chronic diseases like heart disease, diabetes, cancer, and respiratory illnesses that cannot spread from person to person.

2. Why are NCDs rising in India?
Unhealthy diets, sedentary lifestyles, tobacco and alcohol use, and pollution are the main reasons.

3. How do NCDs affect India’s economy?
They increase healthcare costs, cause productivity losses, and place financial strain on families.

4. Can NCDs be prevented?
Yes. Healthy eating, regular exercise, avoiding tobacco/alcohol, and routine health check-ups reduce risk.

5. How does Malar Hospital help manage NCDs?
Through preventive check-ups, advanced screenings, specialised treatment, health camps and patient support services.

6. When should I come for a check-up?
You should visit for a health check-up if:

• You are above 30 years of age, even if you feel healthy (annual screening recommended).
• You have risk factors like family history of diabetes, heart disease, hypertension, or cancer.
• You experience symptoms such as persistent fatigue, unexplained weight changes, chest pain, shortness of breath, or frequent thirst/urination.
• You are above 30 years of age, even if you feel healthy (annual screening recommended)

At Malar Hospital, we offer customised health check-up packages to suit your age, lifestyle, and medical history.