India is facing a growing silent health crisis, and it’s not just about heart attacks and diabetes anymore. A massive new report by Apollo Hospitals has shed light on some unexpected but serious risk factors now threatening the nation’s health — including fatty liver disease, health risks in postmenopausal women, and childhood obesity.
The comprehensive survey titled Health of the Nation studied the health records of over 2.5 million people across the country. What it found is both revealing and alarming: issues like vitamin deficiencies, high rates of undiagnosed hypertension and diabetes, and even mental health problems are far more common than previously believed. And many people are unaware of the risks they carry — because they show no symptoms at all.
Here’s a breakdown of what the study found and why it matters more than ever for Indians to prioritise preventive healthcare.
Fatty Liver: Not Just a Drinker’s Disease
Fatty liver disease is quickly becoming one of India’s biggest silent threats. Once mostly linked to alcohol consumption, it’s now being driven by poor diet, obesity, and lifestyle choices. According to the report, out of 2,57,199 people screened, a shocking 65% were found to have fatty liver — and here’s the catch: 85% of them didn’t consume alcohol.
Even more worrying is the fact that more than half of these individuals had normal blood tests, proving that regular health check-ups alone may not be enough to detect liver issues early. Fatty liver is now closely tied to other chronic conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart disease, making it a critical public health concern.
Post-Menopausal Health Needs More Focus
The transition into menopause is not just about hormonal changes — it can come with a serious spike in health risks. The study revealed that diabetes rates increased from 14% before menopause to 40% after, while obesity rates jumped from 76% to 86%, and fatty liver prevalence rose from 54% to 70% among women.
These numbers clearly show the need for proactive health planning for women, especially around menopause. Personalised care, regular screenings, and awareness about the long-term health impact of menopause could play a key role in preventing complications later in life.
Childhood Obesity Is a Time Bomb
Another troubling trend? Children and young adults are gaining weight at an alarming rate. According to the report, 8% of primary school students are already overweight or obese. This number rises steadily through the teenage years, reaching 28% among college students.
That’s not all — 19% of college students were found to be pre-hypertensive, a red flag showing how early lifestyle-related health issues are starting. Sedentary habits, poor diets, screen addiction, and lack of physical activity are contributing to a crisis that could have long-term consequences if not addressed immediately.
Heart Disease: The Risk You Don’t Feel
The survey highlighted how heart disease is continuing to sneak up on people — many of whom have no obvious symptoms. Out of those who underwent coronary calcium scoring, 46% showed early signs of atherosclerosis (hardening of arteries), and 25% had actual coronary artery disease (CAD).
What’s more surprising is that 2.5% of those with calcium buildup were under 40 years old. This means younger adults aren’t safe either — a wake-up call for the under-40 population to start getting heart screenings, even if they feel perfectly healthy.
Hypertension Often Goes Unnoticed
High blood pressure, or hypertension, was seen in 26% of the people screened in 2024 — again, many had no noticeable symptoms. Left unchecked, hypertension is a leading cause of heart attacks, strokes, and kidney problems.
The study emphasises the need for routine BP checks — not just at clinics but as a normal part of wellness check-ups, much like how blood sugar or cholesterol is tested.
India Is Low on Vitamins
Another concerning finding is the widespread deficiency of essential vitamins, particularly Vitamin D and B12. According to the report:
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77% of women and 82% of men were found deficient in Vitamin D
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49% of men and 35% of women under 40 were low in Vitamin B12
Vitamin deficiencies can lead to fatigue, bone weakness, mood changes, and even nerve problems — and they’re surprisingly common in urban India due to limited sun exposure and poor diet. The findings show that nutritional awareness and supplementation are more crucial than ever.
Sleep Apnea: A Hidden Threat
Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA), a condition where breathing repeatedly stops during sleep, is becoming increasingly common. The study found that:
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1 in 4 Indians is at high risk for OSA
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33% of men and 10% of women screened were at high risk
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Risk shot up among seniors: 68% of men and 22% of women over 55
OSA is linked to obesity, fatigue, and cardiovascular disease, yet it is heavily underdiagnosed. Many mistake it for simple tiredness or stress, missing a serious underlying issue that can affect quality of life and long-term health.
Mental Health Still Stigmatised
Mental health remains a growing but still under-addressed issue. Out of 47,424 individuals screened:
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7% of women and 5% of men showed signs of clinical depression
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The highest burden was seen in the 40–55 age group
Despite growing awareness, social stigma and lack of early intervention still keep many from seeking help. These findings call for better mental health services, workplace support, and education around emotional well-being.
Preventive Health: A Growing Shift
On a positive note, more Indians are choosing preventive care. The number of people getting health check-ups grew from 1 million in 2019 to 2.5 million in 2024, showing a 150% increase in just five years.
This trend highlights a changing mindset — one that understands the importance of catching diseases early, even before symptoms appear.
Key Takeaway
The Health of the Nation report sends a clear message: many serious health issues in India are developing quietly, without warning signs. Whether it’s fatty liver, childhood obesity, heart disease, or mental health struggles, prevention and awareness are the first steps toward change.
From better nutrition and regular screenings to tackling stigma and improving sleep health, there’s a lot individuals and policymakers can do. The time to act is now — before these hidden threats become national epidemics.
