Lifestyle diseases affecting Indians earlier, says AP governor

Visakhapatnam: Medical education not only imparts knowledge but also fosters innovation and research, said Andhra Pradesh governor Syed Abdul Nazeer. He was the chief guest at the graduation ceremony for MBBS graduates at NRI Institute of Medical Sciences in Visakhapatnam on Saturday.

Speaking on the occasion, Nazeer said that despite advancements in medicine, health inequalities persist in the country. “Although India’s fertility rate has recently declined to 2.01, it remains higher than that of China (1.21) and the US (1.67). As a result, population growth and the demand for healthcare services continue to rise. Non-communicable diseases and lifestyle-related illnesses have become major causes of death in the country. Physical inactivity, unhealthy dietary habits, the consumption of processed foods and sugary beverages, and mental stress are among the primary causes,” said the governor.

Addressing the students, Sudha Reddy, chairperson of NRI Educational Institutions, said that the degrees they received were not merely qualifications but symbols of their perseverance and dedication to achieving their goals. “Great educational institutions are built not merely with buildings, but with vision, values and commitment. Our goal is to lead future generations with compassion and unity. A good doctor treats a disease; a great doctor treats the patient who has the disease. Move forward with confidence, heal with wisdom, serve with humility, and act with integrity. May your knowledge become a blessing to humanity,” said Reddy.

“While the non-communicable diseases typically affect people above 55 years of age in many developing countries, in India they are appearing nearly a decade earlier, around the age of 45. Many of these lifestyle diseases can be prevented through an active lifestyle, regular health check-ups, attention to mental well-being and healthy eating habits. Although India has a three-tier healthcare system, disparities remain in the availability of services between urban and rural areas. Urban regions enjoy better facilities, while rural areas continue to lag. It is noteworthy that this hospital serves the healthcare needs of people from backward regions such as Srikakulam, as well as border areas of Odisha,” added the governor.