Maharashtra Faces Silent Epidemic of Childhood Non-Communicable Diseases

Childhood non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are rapidly becoming a significant public health crisis in Maharashtra, with more than 6 million children affected. Experts describe this situation as a “silent epidemic” that poses serious risks to both children’s health and the broader healthcare system. During a workshop held in Mumbai on September 15, 2025, organized by UNICEF India and the Press Information Bureau, alarming data were shared, highlighting the scale of this emerging challenge.

The statistics reveal a troubling trend: Maharashtra has over 6 million overweight children, including 2.4 million classified as obese. Each year, the state reports nearly 2,000 new cases of Type 1 diabetes and between 20,000 to 25,000 cases of congenital heart disease. Respiratory illnesses are widespread, with approximately 3.3 million children living with asthma, while an estimated 8.8 million children face some form of mental disorder.

Rising Health Concerns Among Children

Globally, NCDs are responsible for 71% of all deaths, with India attributing nearly two out of three deaths to these diseases. “Diseases once thought to affect only adults, such as diabetes and obesity, are increasingly appearing in children, which should alarm us all,” stated Dr. Nipun Vinayak, Secretary of Maharashtra’s Public Health Department. He emphasized the government’s commitment to expanding school screenings, ensuring access to medications, and enhancing district-level care, stressing that prevention should begin as early as pregnancy.

Obesity is one of the fastest-growing health threats facing children. Factors such as poor diet, processed foods, physical inactivity, and excessive screen time contribute to this alarming trend. “Obesity is linked to 44% of diabetes, 23% of heart disease, and 41% of certain cancers later in life,” explained Dr. Meenakshi Girish, head of paediatrics at AIIMS Nagpur. She recommended exclusive breastfeeding in the first six months, regular physical activity, and limiting sugary drink consumption and screen time as preventive measures.

Type 1 diabetes, an autoimmune condition where the body ceases insulin production, accounts for 75% of childhood diabetes cases in India, which has the highest prevalence globally with over 200,000 affected children and adolescents. Maharashtra alone sees around 2,000 new cases annually. Managing this condition requires lifelong insulin, yet many families struggle with access to necessary resources, often resorting to costly private healthcare.

Asthma, frequently misdiagnosed as a recurring cough or chest infection, can lead to significant complications and missed school days. Environmental factors, including pollution and allergens, exacerbate this condition. Doctors stress that early diagnosis and effective management can enable children to lead normal lives.

Mental health issues are also a growing concern. Nearly 8.8 million children and adolescents in Maharashtra are affected by various mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, and learning disabilities. Nationally, 7.3% of adolescents aged 13 to 17 exhibit signs of mental morbidity. Experts advocate for increased awareness, family support, and accessible services to reduce stigma and promote early intervention.

Challenges in Diagnosis and Treatment

Congenital heart disease (CHD) remains the most common birth defect, impacting approximately 20,000 newborns in Maharashtra each year, or 8 to 10 per 1,000 live births. Many cases go undiagnosed due to inadequate screening and limited access to specialized care, which can lead to delayed growth and developmental issues. According to data from the Rashtriya Bal Swasthya Karyakram (RBSK), 16,200 children have been identified with CHD, with over 27,000 surgeries performed under the program. Advances in care mean that with timely diagnosis, many affected children can lead healthy lives.

Sickle cell disease is another serious health issue in Maharashtra, particularly prevalent in the Vidarbha region, where approximately 16,413 patients are affected. This genetic disorder results in anemia, pain, and frequent infections, which severely impact school attendance and overall growth. Although it is incurable, early detection and consistent care can significantly reduce complications and improve life expectancy.

Experts highlight that late diagnosis is a critical challenge, as families often seek treatment only after conditions have worsened. This delay leads to preventable hospitalizations and lasting complications. Even after a diagnosis, access to pediatric specialists and counseling services is limited, particularly in smaller facilities, compounding the issue further. High treatment costs and societal stigma add to the burden facing families.

“The burden of childhood NCDs is not just medical but also social and financial,” noted Sanjay Singh, Chief of UNICEF Maharashtra. He described these diseases as an “invisible epidemic” and announced the launch of a Pediatric NCD Clinic at AIIMS Nagpur, supported by UNICEF, to provide weekly outpatient services.

Dr. Prashant Joshi, Executive Director of AIIMS Nagpur, emphasized that India is undergoing an epidemiological transition, with NCDs rising at a faster rate than infectious diseases. He pointed out that the existing National Programme for Prevention and Control of NCDs (NP-NCD) primarily targets adults over 30, leaving children without dedicated strategies. “Maharashtra lacks a focused policy and standardized protocols for childhood NCDs. This partnership between AIIMS, UNICEF, and the state marks a crucial first step towards developing models for early detection, prevention, and healthier habits,” he concluded.