Telangana screens 1.49 crore people for NCDs, identifies 18 lakh with hypertension, nine lakh with diabetes

The Telangana government has screened around 1.49 crore individuals for non-communicable diseases (NCDs), identifying approximately 18 lakh with hypertension and over nine lakh with diabetes, according to Health Secretary Christina Z. Chongthu. Speaking at the 7th International Conference on Lifestyle Medicine (ISLMCON 2026) in Hyderabad, Chongthu emphasized the significance of preventive healthcare in combating the rising prevalence of NCDs.

The conference, organized by the Indian Society of Lifestyle Medicine (ISLM), focused on the theme 'From Burnout to Balance: Health through Lifestyle Medicine'.

Chongthu pointed out that factors such as heightened workplace stress, evolving family dynamics, and caregiving responsibilities are contributing to increased stress and burnout among people. She highlighted the importance of shifting healthcare focus from treatment to prevention through lifestyle interventions, particularly in the face of modern life's challenges. Nutrition, physical activity, adequate sleep, stress management, and social connectedness were identified as crucial elements for overall well-being.

Dr. Lakshmi Sundar, president of ISLM, added that burnout often goes unnoticed as a contributing factor to various health issues. She advocated for integrating lifestyle medicine practices, including nutrition, physical activity, stress management, and other healthy habits, into daily routines to address both the underlying causes and symptoms of illness.