As the world navigates the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, a troubling trend has emerged, a significant increase in the frequency of illness, with India being no exception. Reports and studies highlight a surge in cases of diabetes, lower body pain, cardiovascular diseases, and other chronic conditions post-pandemic, raising questions about the long-term impact of COVID-19 on public health.
Rising health concerns in the Indian Population
Several studies have documented a sharp rise in health issues among Indians post-COVID-19. According to a 2023 report by the Indian Medical Association (IMA). there have been:
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A 22% increase in diabetes cases, with many attributing it to the lingering effects of COVID-19 and the associated sedentary lifestyle during lockdowns.
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A 35% rise in lower back and joint pain complaints, possibly linked to prolonged remote work setups and reduced physical activity.
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A 28% spike in cardiovascular diseases, including heart attacks and strokes, particularly among individuals aged 30-35.
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Increased reports of long-term COVID symptoms, including chronic fatigue, brain fog, and persistent respiration issues.
COVID-19, vaccines, or lifestyle changes, what’s to blame?
The causes of these deteriorating health conditions are multifaceted and not easily pinned to a single factor. Experts suggest that:
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COVID-19’s direct impact-
Studies including one from AIIMS Delhi, indicate that the virus has caused long-term damage to organs, particularly the heart, lungs, and pancreas. This damage has been linked to an increased risk of diabetes and cardiovascular issues.
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Vaccination side effect-
While today this subject is debatable whether it is the vaccine responsible for the post-COVID health crisis recalling the harrowing days of the pandemic, vaccines have been very crucial in controlling the pandemic. A small percentage of recipients reported temporary side effects such as small inflammation and fatigue. However, large-scale studies have consistently revealed that vaccines were overwhelmingly safe and not the primary cause of chronic health issues.
A study supported by the National Institutes of Health (NHI), examines the long-term health effects of COVID-19, particularly on the heart and cardiovascular system. It found that people who were unvaccinated and contracted COVID-19, especially during the early phase of the pandemic when the original SARS-CoV-2 strain was circulating, faced a significantly increased risk of heart attacks, strokes, and death.
While previous research has already indicated that COVID-19 could lead to the risk of cardiovascular problems, this study suggested that the elevated risk may persist for up to three years after the initial infection. This means that the long-term health consequences of COVID-19 even for individuals without preexisting heart diseases, can last much longer than initially anticipated, at least for those who were infected during the first wave of the pandemic, before vaccines were widely available.
Vaccines, being artificial medicines, often face skepticism as they are not natural substances. Studies suggest that the human body, when exposed to any vaccine, may exhibit side effects, reflecting its interaction with foreign elements. However, in the case of COVID-19, also referred to as the Wuhan virus, allegedly a man-made virus, the vaccine was an equally man-made solution, crafted as humanity’s defense against unprecedented challenges. While it served as a crucial tool in controlling the pandemic, the debate around its long-term impacts continues to spark discussions worldwide.
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Pandemic-induced lifestyle changes
- Prolonged lockdowns led to reduced physical activity, unhealthy eating habits, and increased stress. These factors significantly contributed to the rise in lifestyle-related diseases.
Comparative analysis, global trends vs Indian realities
Globally, the rise in post-pandemic health issues mirrors trends seen in India. However, the severity in India is exacerbated by:
- High prevalence of pre-existing conditions: India already has a significant burden of diabetes and heart diseases before the pandemic, which has worsened post-COVID.
- Healthcare disparities: limited access to healthcare during the pandemic meant delayed diagnoses and treatment for many chronic conditions.
- Population density and stress: The psychological toll of the pandemic has been profound, contributing to conditions like hypertension and anxiety-related disorders.
Focus on diabetes and cardiovascular health
Diabetes surge:
- COVID-19’s ability to affect the pancreas and disrupt insulin production has been noted in multiple studies. A Lancet report from 2022 showed that individuals who recovered from severe COVID-19 were 40% more likely to develop diabetes within a year.
Cardiovascular risks:
- The virus’s inflammatory effects on the vascular system have led to a surge in Heart-related conditions. A study by PGIMER Chandigarh found that cases of heart attack among young adults (under 40) in India rose by 30% post-pandemic.
Long COVID, the silent burden
An estimated 10-20% of COVID-19 survivors in India reported symptoms consistent with long COVID. Chronic fatigue, joint pain, and mental health struggles are common complaints, that significantly impact quality of life and productivity.
India’s forgotten science, the power of Ayurveda
India's geographical location and genetic heritage once provided a superior and pure foundation for health when the population was deeply connected to its roots. Our ancestors emphasized clean eating, meditation, and natural remedies, fostering robust health and longevity. Unfortunately, as India increasingly adopted Western habits and a modern, fast-paced lifestyle, these traditional practices were sidelined.
Ayurveda, an ancient Indian system of medicine, is now gaining recognition globally for its profound healing capabilities. Many believe Ayurveda holds cures even for chronic diseases like cancer. Recently, Navjot Singh Sidhu made headlines when he credited Ayurveda for his wife’s recovery from cancer, reaffirming the ancient system’s potential.
Ironically, as we drifted away from our tradition, the Western world began exploring and adopting these ancient practices, recognizing their value. This colonial mindset, which prioritizes Western ideologies over our heritage, needs correction. Reconnecting with Ayurveda and other ancestral practices could play a vital role in healing not just individuals but the broader Indian civilization.
What is the cure?
To address post-COVID health challenges, public awareness campaigns are essential for promoting regular health checkups and healthy lifestyles. Strengthening healthcare infrastructure with a focus on preventive care can reduce the chronic disease burden.
Continuous research and monitoring of health trends are vital for understanding long-term impacts. Additionally, promoting physical activity and ergonomic practices can help prevent musculoskeletal issues and improve overall well-being.
The pandemic may have receded but its ripple effects on public health are far from over. For India, the rising tide of Chronic illness post-COVID-19 is a wake-up call to prioritize health and wellness. Whether through policy interventions or individual efforts, addressing these challenges head-on is critical to ensuring a healthier, more resilient population in the years to come.