Latest news with #IIPS
Time of India
22-07-2025
- Health
- Time of India
Many elderly Indians are ill and unaware about it, finds ongoing Longitudinal Aging Study in India
Mumbai: Many of the elderly in India are ill and are unaware about it, according to the latest findings of the ongoing Longitudinal Aging Study in India (LASI) being conducted by the International Institute for Population Sciences (IIPS) in Deonar. The latest LASI findings show a gap between self-declaration of chronic diseases and actual incidence measured through blood tests. When India's first aging study — and the world's largest such study — began over eight years ago, researchers asked the 73,000 participants over 45 years of age to self-report conditions such as diabetes and anaemia. The findings, published in 2020-21, showed that 9.2% of those in the 45-59 age group and 14.2% of the 60-plus age group participants reported having diabetes. However, as a part of LASI, blood samples of all the participants were collected and analysed for HbA1c — a biomarker test for diabetes. These findings, released last week, showed that 13.3% of the 45-59 age group and 16.2% of the 60-plus age group had high HbA1c, indicating diabetes, said IIPS professor Dr T V Sekher, who is the principal author of the report. You Can Also Check: Mumbai AQI | Weather in Mumbai | Bank Holidays in Mumbai | Public Holidays in Mumbai The biomarker tests were conducted on dried blood spots of 64,399 samples and te-sted at Indian Council of Medical Research's National Institute of Translational Virology and AIDS Research laboratory in Pune. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like American Investor Warren Buffett Recommends: 5 Books For Turning Your Life Around Blinkist: Warren Buffett's Reading List Undo Overall, 8% of the adults (age above 45) have undiagnosed diabetes. The study found that the proportion of older adults (age 45 and above) with undiagnosed diabetes ranges from 3% in Himachal Pradesh to 15% in Andhra Pradesh. More than one-tenth of the elderly (age 60+) have undiagnosed diabetes in Andhra Pradesh (16%), Telangana (14%), Chandigarh (12%), and 11% each in Jammu & Kashmir, Sikkim, Dadra & Nagar Haveli, Andaman & Nicobar Islands, and Tamil Nadu. While haemoglobin (Hb) levels found in the study indicate a lower prevalence of anaemia compared to other surveys, it showed that 34% of elderly Indian men could have anaemia. "The prevalence of anaemia is 35% among women in the 45-59 age bracket, but increases to 40% among elderly women," said Dr Sekher. LASI, which is sponsored by the Union ministry of health and family welfare, will continue for another two decades, with the same participants. "India is rapidly aging, and we need to understand the disease patterns among the elderly. LASI's findings will help devise better public health plans for the elderly," he said. While the 60-plus account for roughly 10% of the total population, it's estimated that they will make up 20% of the population in 20-25 years. This is the first time that the prevale-nce of diabetes and anaemia in a pan-India study was tested using blood samples. LASI covered 73,000 adults over 45 years and included 32,000 over 60 years or more. "LASI showed the difference between self-reported and actually measured prevalence of both diabetes and anaemia among older adults," said Dr Sekher.
&w=3840&q=100)
Business Standard
30-06-2025
- Health
- Business Standard
Understanding gestational diabetes: Why early detection, awareness matter
Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is a condition that develops during pregnancy. In this condition, the body of the pregnant woman becomes less sensitive to insulin made by the pancreas, especially in the second and third trimesters. It causes elevated blood sugar levels, which, if unchecked, can lead to complications for both mother and baby. How common is GDM and what do the latest data show? Survey data from the International Institute of Population Sciences (IIPS), Mumbai shows developing countries—like India—are seeing sharper rises in diabetes than developed nations. The study analysed the individual data from the National Family Health Survey (NFHS) surveyed in 2015–2016 (4th round) and 2019–2021 (5th round). The number of diabetic women is projected to reach 313.3 million by 2040 globally. In 2015 alone, around 5 million Indian women had GDM—16.2 per cent of live births, with 85.1 per cent attributed specifically to GDM. Regional studies show varied prevalence: - 17.8 per cent in urban areas - 13.8 per cent in semi-urban areas - 9.9 per cent in rural areas The study highlights the key risk factors as: High BMI High-glycaemic index (GI) food Lack of exercise/physical inactivity Long-term contraceptive use Multimorbidity Hyperthyroidism Why is GDM often missed or diagnosed too late? Despite regional differences, delayed or missed GDM detection remains widespread. Universal screening at 24–28 weeks, and earlier for high-risk women, is essential. Dr Kalyan Kumar Gangopadhyay, Endocrinologist – CMRI, Kolkata told Business Standard: 'One of the studies revealed that GDM cases were missed among 57 per cent of mothers, chiefly because the condition can remain asymptomatic until sugar levels become dangerously high.' Dr Abhinaya Alluri, Senior Gynaecologist & Obstetrician, CARE Hospitals, Hyderabad added: 'In clinical practice, missed or late diagnoses of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) are unfortunately not uncommon, especially in resource-limited settings or among women with limited antenatal care access. GDM often presents without obvious symptoms, so without proactive screening, it can go undetected until later stages of pregnancy.' What are the risks of untreated gestational diabetes? The consequences of gestational diabetes can be serious if not diagnosed and managed early. For the mother, GDM increases the risk of: Preeclampsia (a dangerous pregnancy complication involving high blood pressure) Development of type 2 diabetes later in life Caesarean delivery For the baby, late-diagnosed or untreated GDM can lead to: Macrosomia (excessive birth weight), increasing the risk of birth trauma Shoulder dystocia, a delivery complication where the baby's shoulders get stuck behind the mother's pelvic bone Neonatal hypoglycaemia (low blood sugar in new-borns) Higher lifetime risk of obesity and glucose intolerance Can gestational diabetes lead to long-term health problems for the child? Recent research published in The Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology, summarised by Business Standard, shows that maternal diabetes—whether gestational or pre-existing—is linked to increased risk of neurodevelopmental disorders in children. A globally pooled meta-analysis of 56 million pregnancies in over 200 studies found: 25 per cent higher risk of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) 30 per cent higher risk of ADHD 32 per cent higher risk of intellectual disability 28 per cent higher overall risk of any neurodevelopmental condition How is gestational diabetes diagnosed during pregnancy? Diagnosis of gestational diabetes is typically done through simple, non-invasive blood tests. The most common tests include: Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (OGTT): Conducted between 24–28 weeks of pregnancy. The patient drinks a glucose solution, and blood sugar levels are tested at regular intervals. Cost: ₹300–₹800 (private labs), free or subsidised in government hospitals Fasting Blood Sugar (FBS) and Postprandial Blood Sugar (PPBS): Sometimes used as preliminary screening tools, especially during early pregnancy. Cost: ₹100–₹300 Random Blood Sugar Test and HbA1c (glycated haemoglobin): May also be used in some cases. Cost: ₹500–₹800 What treatment options are available for GDM? Once diagnosed, GDM can usually be managed with lifestyle changes. Treatment includes: Medical Nutrition Therapy (MNT): A customised diet plan focused on low glycaemic index foods, adequate protein and fibre. Cost: ₹500–₹1,500 per session Self-Monitoring of Blood Glucose (SMBG): Regular glucose checks using home glucometers. Cost: ₹700–₹2,500 Medication: If blood sugar levels are not controlled through diet and exercise alone, doctors may prescribe: Insulin therapy (safe during pregnancy) Occasionally, oral anti-diabetic drugs like metformin (depending on clinical judgement) Cost: ₹1,000–₹3,000 per month Costs vary depending on location (urban vs rural), hospital (private vs public), and the frequency of monitoring or medication needed. Many government maternity clinics offer free GDM screening and management under the national health scheme. How do diet and lifestyle changes support early intervention? Controlling GDM often begins with diet and exercise. Balanced meals, fewer high-GI foods, and regular physical activity—even gentle exercise like prenatal walking—can regulate blood sugar effectively. 'In my practice, as soon as a woman is identified as high-risk, due to BMI, family history, or previous GDM, we begin counselling on balanced nutrition, physical activity, and healthy weight gain goals. A structured dietary plan focusing on complex carbohydrates, lean proteins, and fibre, along with portion control, can significantly help in maintaining glycaemic control. The key is personalisation—each woman's cultural background, food preferences, and lifestyle need to be considered,' said Dr Alluri. Adding to the discourse, Dr Kumar said, 'Women who are overweight or obese prior to conception are at significantly higher risk, and for that, pre-pregnancy weight management through healthy eating and exercising is highly recommended. I encourage patients to treat GDM as a condition they can manage, supported by structured meal plans and lifestyle coaching as needed.' Why early awareness and public education on GDM are essential The stakes are high: GDM not only affects immediate pregnancy outcomes but can also influence a child's lifelong cognitive and behavioural development. Highlighting the importance of awareness, Dr Alluri said, 'Public health campaigns, community outreach, and integrating GDM education into routine prenatal visits can significantly improve awareness. Social media, mobile health platforms, and maternal health apps also offer powerful channels for dissemination. Collaborations between obstetricians, diabetologists, and public health experts can ensure messaging is consistent and accessible. Ultimately, improving awareness is the first step toward early screening, timely diagnosis, and effective management of GDM.'
India Gazette
27-05-2025
- Politics
- India Gazette
Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar set to visit Mumbai on May 28
New Delhi [India], May 28 (ANI): Vice-President of India Jagdeep Dhankhar will be on a one-day tour of Mumbai, Maharashtra, on Wednesday. During his visit, the Vice-President will preside as Chief Guest at the 65th and 66th Convocation Ceremony of International Institute for Population Sciences (IIPS) in Mumbai. Earlier, emphasising that India needs indigenous strength for national security, Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar said on Tuesday that war is best avoided from a position of strength. Speaking at the inaugural session of Rajya Sabha Internship Program-phase 7, the Vice President said that Operation Sindoor has changed the mindset of people massively with regard to national security, national economy and national welfare. 'We are now nationalistic as never before,' he said. 'The recent episode, Operation Sindoor, has changed our mindset massively. We are now nationalistic as never before. And this is reflected in participation of all political landscape in delegations that have gone abroad to project our message of peace and our complete intolerance to terrorism. And therefore, having seen recent events, well, we have no choice. We have no other option but to remain united and grow stronger,' he said. 'Like institutions, even political tribes have a moral duty to the national cause, because ultimately all Institutions, the Legislature, the Judiciary, the Executive, the focal point is national growth, national welfare, public welfare, to generate transparency, accountability, honesty. On issues of national security, economic progress, all factions need to put national interest over partisan priorities. I will appeal to everyone in the political spectrum to seriously reflect, come to a conclusion that on issues of national security, on issues of growth, on issues of our internal security, there must be consensus. Sometimes politics get too hot for nationalism and security, something we need to overcome,' he added. The Vice President said that technological progress and arms strength also contribute to national strength. 'For national security, we need indigenous strength. War is best avoided from position of strength. Peace is secured when you are ever ready for comes apart from technological prowess, conventional arms strength, from people also.' (ANI)
Time of India
18-05-2025
- Health
- Time of India
Covid-19 cut life expectancy by 1.6yrs: IIPS study
Mumbai: India experienced a sharp decline in life expectancy in 2021, losing 1.6 years amid the Covid-19 pandemic. This setback erased nearly a decade of health gains, according to analysis by researchers from the International Institute for Population Sciences (IIPS), Deonar. The findings come days after the Union govt released data from the civil registration system showing that India recorded 2.2 million excess deaths in 2021 compared to 2019, the last pre-pandemic year. The study, led by IIPS doctoral students Chandan Kumar, Pravat Bhandari, Himanshu Jaiswal, and Professor Suryakant Yadav from the department of biostatistics and epidemiology, found that the country's overall life expectancy at birth fell from 70.4 years in 2019 to 68.8 years in 2021. Among the 22 states analysed, 19 experienced declines in life expectancy. The most severe drops were seen in Gujarat, Punjab, and Haryana, where life expectancy fell by more than three years. "Men in India saw a 2.2-year drop in life expectancy, from 68.9 to 66.7 years, while women's life expectancy declined by only 0.5 years, from 72.1 to 71.5 years," said Dr Yadav. "This shows that men died at much higher rates during the pandemic, resulting in a further widening of the gender gap," he added. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Giao dịch Bitcoin và Ethereum - Không cần ví! IC Markets BẮT ĐẦU NGAY Undo The gender gap in life expectancy grew to 3.2 years in 2021, up from 2.8 years before the pandemic. In states like Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, and Uttarakhand, the decline in male life expectancy was more than five times greater than that of females. Dr Yadav emphasised that these results are very preliminary and that the final comprehensive report will soon be sent for publication. Life expectancy at birth —an estimate of the average years a newborn can expect to live based on current mortality rates — is a key component of the Human Development Index (HDI), which measures a country's health, education, and standard of living. "Losses in life expectancy due to Covid-19 could cause India to slip in the HDI rankings," the researchers warned. Noting the global context, Dr Yadav added, "Such dramatic drops are expected following a major disaster or pandemic. Many high-income countries that experienced decl-ines in life expectancy during Covid-19 have since managed to recover these losses."
Hindustan Times
17-05-2025
- Health
- Hindustan Times
Life expectancy in Maha went down 2.36 years during Covid-19
MUMBAI: With two million excess deaths during the Covid-19 years, the average life span in India took a hit, reversing the gradual upwards trend for the first time in five decades. In Maharashtra, life expectancy went down by 2.36 years, with men bearing over six times the burden than women, an analysis of 2021 mortality data released by the government on May 7 by research scholars and a professor at the Indian Institute of Population Studies (IIPS) has revealed. The analysis was conducted by PhD research scholars Chandan Kumar, Pravat Bhandari and Himanshu Jaiswal under the supervision of Suryakant Yadav, an assistant professor at IIPS. 'Men are more vulnerable to death from external factors,' said one of the people behind the analysis, which they plan to submit to journals. 'Men tend to work outside the home, and this increased their proximity with high-risk zones during the Covid years. They tended to go out to earn and get supplies more, increasing their risk of contracting Covid.' Overall, the country saw a 1.6-year decline in life expectancy, falling from 70.4 years in 2019 to 68.8 years in 2021. Only three states, Rajasthan, Telangana, and Uttar Pradesh, escaped this with modest gains in life expectancy by 2021. In this statistic too, men took the larger share—2.7 times that of women—of the dip. Their life span dropped 2.2 years, from 68.9 years to 66.7 years. Women, on the other hand, lived five months less on an average, from 72.1 years in 2019 to 71.5 years in 2021. Other states too saw this trend. 'This pattern of greater life expectancy loss among males compared to females was evident across all the 22 states analysed, though its magnitude varied significantly across states,' says the report. 'In Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra and Uttarakhand, the decline in life expectancy in males was greater than five times that of females. Conversely, Assam, Jammu and Kashmir, Rajasthan, and Uttar Pradesh exhibited the smallest gender differences, with losses in male life expectancy being less than 1.5 times than that of females.' The report says that the decline in male life expectancy further widened India's gender gap in life expectancy in 2021—it increased by 3.2 years in 2021 from 2.8 years in the pre-pandemic period. This effectively erased the slow progress India had been making in life expectancy over the years, taking it back by eight years to the 2013 level when average life expectancy was 68.8 years. 'India took an average of five years to add a one-year increase in life expectancy,' says the analysis. 'Hence, a loss of 1.6 years in life expectancy at birth reveals that the gains made over the past decade during normal or pre-pandemic years were effectively erased during the Covid pandemic. In other words, the Covid pandemic has rolled India's progress in life expectancy back to that of almost a decade earlier.' With the absence of death data of the years after 2021, it is yet to be seen at what pace life expectancy recovers. 'Several high-income countries have seen a quick rebound in the losses in life expectancy, successfully reversing the losses in the post-pandemic years,' said one of the study participants. 'They are advantaged, with better infrastructure and better regulation, and with work-from-home decreasing risk. But we too should be optimistic about the rate India will bounce back from the setback caused by Covid.'
