India had 61.3 million people with diabetes in 2011: Azad

India had an estimated 61.3 million people above 20 years of age suffering from diabetes in 2011, Union Health Minister Ghulam Nabi Azad informed Parliament today.
In a written reply in Lok Sabha, Azad said the estimates were from the International Diabetes Federation, but no state-wise data was available.
He said as per World Health Organisation (WHO), the factors responsible for the increase in non-communicable diseases, including diabetes, were unhealthy diet, lack of physical activity, harmful use of alcohol, obesity and tobacco use.
The Minister said the government launched a national programme for prevention of cancer, diabetes, cardiovascular diseases and stroke during the 11th five-year plan in 100 districts with the aim of preventing and control of non- communicable diseases, including diabetes, through awareness generation, behaviour and life-style changes.

He said the programme also provides for screening of persons above 30 years of age for diabetes and hypertension in various health care facilities like district hospitals, community health centres and sub-centres and their referral to higher facilities for appropriate management of these diseases.