​We asked ChatGPT to predict the diabetes burden on India by 2050…​

India is the diabetes capital of the world with 77 million of its population dealing with this disease. This population size is expected to grow up to 123 million by 2040 a Lancet study has predicted.

While several health reports and studies have been working on the risk factors, causes and measures to reduce the incidence of diabetes in both older and younger adults, we asked ChatGPT to predict the diabetes burden on India by 2050.

Citing the Lancet study, ChatGPT begins with: “Diabetes is a chronic disease that affects millions of people worldwide. In India, the burden of diabetes is expected to increase significantly in the coming decades. According to a study published in the Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology Journal, the number of people with diabetes in India is expected to reach 123 million by 2040.”

Diabetes is a major public health concern in India, as it can lead to several serious health complications, says ChatGPT and brings to our attention the complications associated with this metabolic disorder which includes cardiovascular disease, kidney disease, blindness, and amputations.

“Diabetes is also a leading cause of death in India, accounting for 6.3% of all deaths in the country,” ChatGPT generated article says.

It says, the economic burden of diabetes is also significant, as it places a strain on the healthcare system and can result in lost productivity and income and cites a study published in the International Journal of Diabetes in Developing Countries as per which the economic burden of diabetes in India is estimated to be around US$31 billion per year.

It also talks about the several factors that contribute to the increase in diabetes cases in the world which includes changes in lifestyle, an aging population, and an increase in the prevalence of obesity.

“India is already known as the diabetes capital of the world, with over 77 million adults affected by the disease in 2019,” it says.

“Prevention and management of diabetes is critical to reducing the burden of the disease in India. Lifestyle changes, such as regular exercise and a healthy diet, can help prevent or delay the onset of diabetes. Screening programs can also help identify people with diabetes early, so they can receive the appropriate treatment,” it says.

“Management of diabetes involves controlling blood sugar levels through a combination of lifestyle changes and medications. Regular monitoring of blood sugar levels, regular check-ups with a healthcare provider, and education on how to manage the disease are also important,” it adds on the lifestyle management tips to curb the progress of diabetes.

It also mentions the government initiatives undertaken to address the growing cases of diabetes.

“The government of India has implemented several initiatives to address the diabetes burden in the country. These initiatives include the National Programme for Prevention and Control of Cancer, Diabetes, Cardiovascular Diseases and Stroke (NPCDCS), which aims to prevent and control diabetes and other non-communicable diseases. The government has also implemented the Ayushman Bharat scheme, which provides health insurance to vulnerable populations, including those with diabetes,” it says.

“The burden of diabetes in India is expected to increase significantly in the coming decades, placing a significant strain on the healthcare system and the economy,” the AI generated content reads.

“Prevention and management of diabetes through lifestyle changes, screening, and appropriate treatment are critical to reducing the burden of the disease. The government of India must continue to invest in initiatives aimed at preventing and controlling diabetes, while also providing affordable and accessible healthcare to those affected by the disease,” it concludes.

The AI generated content, however does not speak about an alarming and a serious concern which is lurking somewhere in vicinity but is still not visible to many. Yes, we are talking about prediabetes condition.

Apart from the alarming fact that 77 million people in India are living with diabetes, a lesser known fact is that India is also home to 25 million prediabetics; which means these people are at a higher risk of developing diabetes in the very near future.

Though a lot is said about the diabetes condition and its warning signs, less is talked about prediabetes because the signs are too mild and subtle. One is not aware of having prediabetes until it progresses to diabetic phase.

Health experts and agencies urge people to check blood glucose levels in as early as in their 30s. Timely detection of the condition, lifestyle changes and medication can prevent 80% of diabetes cases.

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