Prevalence of Lifestyle Diseases in Indian Army: A Parliamentary Insight

The prevalence of hypertension and diabetes among the Army's junior commissioned officers and other ranks (JCOs/OR) stands at 9.61% and 2.78%, respectively, which is roughly half of that seen in the general population, according to data shared by the Ministry of Defence with a parliamentary panel.

The report, presented to the Public Accounts Committee, highlights that these lifestyle diseases are a concern due to their impact on military personnel’s health. The Committee has called for comprehensive data and remedial measures to address these issues.

The Ministry emphasized ongoing health initiatives and policies aimed at prevention and control, noting that the retiring age of personnel could be a factor, with many lifestyle diseases developing later in life.