New Delhi: India may be heading toward a silent lifestyle disease crisis, with more than one in three people showing early signs of metabolic health risks, according to a new report released by ekincare.
The report, India’s Silent Health Crisis, is based on an analysis of over four lakh health check-ups conducted between 2023 and 2025. It reveals that a growing number of Indians are developing early markers of conditions such as heart disease, obesity and diabetes even before clinical symptoms appear.
According to the findings, more than 36 per cent of Indians are vitamin deficient, highlighting widespread nutritional gaps. Nearly one in three individuals shows obesity markers, while 31.7 per cent have abnormal cholesterol levels, indicating elevated cardiovascular risk. The report also notes that close to one-third of the population is at risk of diabetes, based on indicators such as HbA1c and fasting blood sugar levels.
In addition, iron deficiency affects 16.4 per cent of individuals, while abnormal readings in liver, thyroid and kidney markers suggest increasing organ stress across the population.
Commenting on the findings, Kiran Kalakuntla said, “The data reflects a growing health challenge that remains largely invisible. Millions of people are going about their lives without realising that their bodies are already sending warning signs. These are not hospital patients; they are people who appear healthy today, which is what makes this a silent crisis. Preventive healthcare must become a priority for employers, policymakers and individuals alike.”
The report also highlights significant regional disparities in health risks. Andhra Pradesh recorded the highest diabetes risk at 56.9 per cent, almost double the national average, followed by Odisha at 42.5 per cent. Vitamin deficiency was most severe in Rajasthan at 43.9 per cent, followed by Karnataka and Gujarat, both at 39.9 per cent.
Meanwhile, Haryana and Karnataka reported the highest levels of cholesterol and cardiovascular risk, at 34.9 per cent and 33.7 per cent respectively.
The findings underscore the urgent need for preventive healthcare interventions, including early screening, regular health monitoring and lifestyle management, as India continues to grapple with the growing burden of non-communicable diseases.
