NEW DELHI: A recently released government report highlights a troubling statistic: over a third of Indian children aged 5-9 years may have high triglyceride levels. This analysis, conducted by the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation, reveals significant health threats, particularly in regions like Jammu and Kashmir, West Bengal, and several northeastern states.
According to the report, approximately 67 per cent of children in West Bengal, 64 per cent in Sikkim, 55 per cent in Nagaland, 57 per cent in Assam, and 50 per cent in Jammu and Kashmir exhibit elevated triglyceride levels, which are known to increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases later in life. This alarming prevalence illustrates an urgent need for public health interventions.
In contrast, states such as Kerala and Maharashtra report the lowest percentages of affected children, with figures at 16.6 per cent and 19.1 per cent, respectively. The disparities among states may reflect differences in lifestyle, diet, and access to healthcare services.
The report titled “Children in India 2025” is the fourth edition in a series launched in 2008. It was unveiled during the 29th Conference of Central and State Statistical Organisations (CoCSSO) held on September 25 in Chandigarh. A press release from the ministry emphasized that this report provides a comprehensive analysis of child well-being across the nation.
Data for this report drew from significant national surveys, including the National Family Health Survey (NFHS) 2019-21 and the Comprehensive National Nutrition Survey (CNNS) 2016-18. These established resources ensured a rigorous approach to assessing child health metrics.
In addition to triglyceride levels, the report identifies prematurity and low birth weight as the top causes of neonatal deaths, accounting for a national prevalence of 48 per cent. Birth asphyxia and trauma during birth followed, with prevalence rates of 16 per cent and 9 per cent, respectively. These findings highlight critical areas for healthcare improvements to safeguard newborns.
Teen health is also a major concern. The report categorizes approximately 5 per cent of teenagers in India as hypertensive, with the highest prevalence seen in Delhi at 10 per cent. Uttar Pradesh (8.6 per cent), Manipur (8.3 per cent), and Chhattisgarh (7 per cent) also show concerning rates. Furthermore, over 16 per cent of adolescents are estimated to have high triglycerides, indicating a growing trend that could lead to serious health implications.
Additionally, the report encompassed data regarding education and child protection, placing literacy at 63.1 per cent among children and adolescents in India. Notably, it found that 73.1 per cent of those aged seven and older are literate. Gender disparities persist, though: over 80 per cent of boys aged 7-9 and 92 per cent of those aged 10-14 are literate, compared to 81.2 per cent of girls in the same age bracket and 90 per cent of girls aged 10-14.
The significant percentage of children with high triglycerides demands immediate attention. Health experts recommend promoting healthier lifestyles and dietary habits among children, which are essential for reducing the incidence of such health issues. Parents and caregivers should stay vigilant and seek regular health check-ups for their children.
Overall, this report acts as a critical tool for policymakers and health practitioners who strive to improve the health outcomes for India’s younger population. As the nation moves toward enhancing child health through informed policies, continuous monitoring of health metrics will remain vital.
