Multimorbidity in Urban India: Unmasking the Health Crisis Within Cities

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Highlights:

• Multimorbidity is on the rise in urban India, with chronic conditions like anaemia, asthma, diabetes, hypertension, and obesity becoming more prevalent
• Income disparities and limited healthcare access contribute to the burden of multimorbidity, particularly affecting low-income groups
• Integrated healthcare systems, increased screenings, and community awareness are proposed solutions to address the challenges of multimorbidity in urban areas

Multimorbidity, defined as the co-occurrence of multiple chronic conditions, is emerging as a significant health challenge in metropolitan regions of India. This article explores the prevalence of multimorbidities in urban areas, the disparities in healthcare access, the impact of urban environments on health, and proposed solutions to address this pressing issue (1^✔).

Prevalence of Multimorbidities in Urban India

Anemia, asthma, diabetes, hypertension, and obesity are among the most common multimorbidities affecting urban India. Rapid urbanization and high rates of in-migration contribute to the heterogeneous population in cities, leading to higher prevalence rates. Studies have shown that women in urban areas face a higher risk of developing multimorbidities due to uneven access to healthcare.

Income Disparities and Healthcare Access In Urban Areas

Income disparities exacerbate the problem, with lower-income groups facing challenges in accessing healthcare. Multimorbidity is often associated with high out-of-pocket expenses, putting a burden on lower-income groups. The lack of proper access to basic amenities like clean drinking water and sanitation further compounds the health risks faced by vulnerable populations.

Barriers to Treatment and Inequity in Urban India

Studies reveal that people tend to seek treatment for short-term illnesses while neglecting chronic conditions. Even within socioeconomic groups receiving treatment for chronic diseases like diabetes and hypertension, inequities persist due to the higher cost and longer duration of treatment. The cost of diagnostic tests and laboratory procedures acts as a barrier, leading to decreased access and consultations, particularly for low-income groups.

The Impact of Urban Environments on Health

Urban environments bring their own set of health challenges. The urban heat island effect (UHIE) and extreme climate events such as flooding and droughts negatively impact the health of urban dwellers. UHIE leads to higher temperatures, increased energy consumption, and greater emission of pollutants, which can have adverse effects on human health. Flooding and droughts result in water and food shortages, causing nutritional deficits and the spread of water- and vector-borne diseases.

Gaps in the Healthcare System and Proposed Solutions

The Indian healthcare system primarily focuses on vertical healthcare, catering to individual diseases rather than addressing multimorbidity. There is a need for an integrated, patient-centered, and horizontal healthcare system that targets multiple underlying health conditions. The government can increase screenings under existing programs and establish broader-based initiatives to detect and prevent multimorbidities at an early stage. Programs like Ayushman Bharat aim to provide accessible and affordable healthcare to low-income groups, and efforts like the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission are working towards improving healthcare access through digital infrastructure.

‘Multimorbidity is on the Rise! Explore the hidden health crisis in urban India, its impact, and proposed solutions for a healthier future. Let's tackle this together! #HealthCrisis #UrbanIndia #Multimorbidity’

Multimorbidity in urban India is a growing health concern that requires immediate attention. Disparities in healthcare access, the impact of urban environments, and gaps in the healthcare system contribute to the prevalence of multimorbidities. To address this issue effectively, an integrated and patient-centered healthcare approach must be implemented, along with increased screenings, comprehensive health services, and community awareness initiatives. By addressing these challenges, we can reduce the burden of multimorbidities and improve the overall health and well-being of urban populations in India.

Reference:

1. Frailty in the concrete jungle: Why are the urban poor more vulnerable to multimorbidities? - (https:www.orfonline.org/expert-speak/frailty-in-the-concrete-jungle-why-are-the-urban-poor-more-vulnerable-to-multimorbidities/)

Source: Medindia

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