One in Five Adults in Jammu Diabetic, 12% in Kashmir

Srinagar — A new health survey has revealed alarming disparities in diabetes prevalence across Jammu and Kashmir, with approximately 20 per cent of adults in the Jammu division and 12 per cent in the Kashmir division now living with the condition.

The findings, part of a comprehensive study conducted by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) in collaboration with local health institutions, highlight the growing burden of non-communicable diseases in the union territory.

Experts attribute the higher prevalence in Jammu to a combination of dietary habits, sedentary lifestyles and genetic predisposition. "The Jammu region has seen a rapid shift towards processed foods and reduced physical activity over the past two decades, which are key drivers of diabetes," said a senior endocrinologist at GMC Jammu.

In Kashmir, while the prevalence is comparatively lower, the rate of increase is alarming. Health officials note that the traditional Kashmiri diet, which is high in salt and rice, combined with the long winters that limit outdoor activity, is contributing to a steady rise in diabetes cases.

The study also found that a significant proportion of diabetics in both regions are undiagnosed, with many learning of their condition only when they present with complications such as kidney disease, vision problems or cardiovascular events.

"Early detection and lifestyle modification are the most effective tools we have against diabetes. We need widespread screening programmes, especially in rural areas," said the lead researcher of the study.

The J&K Health Department has announced plans to expand its diabetes screening programme to all primary health centres and sub-centres across the union territory, with a target of screening 10 lakh adults by the end of the fiscal year.