Hypertension and Diabetes in Indian Army: A Closer Look

The prevalence of hypertension among junior commissioned officers and other ranks (JCOs/OR) in the Indian Army is reported to be 9.61% as of the end of 2023, according to data submitted to a parliamentary panel. However, this figure remains notably lower than the country's average, according to the Ministry of Defence.

The Ministry highlighted that the prevalence rates for hypertension and diabetes among JCOs/OR are nearly half of those reported in the National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5) from 2019-2021. Through health promotions and preventative measures, the forces have managed to maintain these reduced levels significantly.

Further data indicated that while 2.78% suffer from diabetes mellitus type II, medical officers experience more lifestyle disorders, attributed to irregular working hours. The Defence Ministry is focused on implementing measures to mitigate lifestyle diseases and comparing the disabilities figures among various categories of army personnel.