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Life styles which are fuelling rise in cancer & diabetes in rural & urban india:-

1. Less physical activities due to availability of modern technology helping in farm land as well as at home

2. Consumption of processed food like packaged food like chips, kurkure, biscuits etc

3. Sedentary lifestyle especially after the easy availability of cheap mobile data and addiction to social media

4. Stress ful life due to focus on trivial issues and rivalry

5. Hectic work schedule in urban areas and target based work performance assessment

What should be done to overcome these :-

1. Eat healthy, non processed food

2. Use less of mobile phone and social media

3. Perform physical activities at least for half an hour daily

4. Do not take stress and opt for stress management if it happens

5. Talk and interact with people around you, build a bond with them, rather then to glued to online life

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- Dr. Nandan Panda

Lifestyle habits contributing to disease:

Unhealthy diet: More processed foods, sugary drinks, refined carbohydrates, excess salt and unhealthy fats.

Physical inactivity: Sedentary jobs, screen time and reduced physical labour.

Tobacco and alcohol: Major contributors to cancer, diabetes and cardiovascular diseases.

Obesity: Increasing due to excess calorie intake and lack of exercise.

Poor sleep and stress: Increasingly common due to work pressure, technology and changing lifestyles.

Delayed screening: People often seek care only after symptoms appear.

What Can We Do?

Eat more vegetables, fruits, pulses and whole grains.

Reduce processed food, sugar, salt and sugary drinks.

Exercise or remain physically active 30–45 minutes daily.

Avoid tobacco and limit alcohol.

Maintain a healthy weight and adequate sleep.

Promote regular screening for diabetes, hypertension and common cancers.

Make healthy food and physical activity part of schools, workplaces and communities.

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Reflecting on Rural Healthcare: A Journey into Rural Life - Dr. Nandan Panda

My village is predominantly a rural and naturally rich area where people's lives remain closely connected with agriculture, forests, local traditions and community relationships. Reflecting on healthcare in my village gives me an opportunity to understand how health is influenced not only by medical services, but also by the environment, lifestyle, education, livelihood and social conditions of the community.

1. Environment and Natural Resources:

The area is surrounded by a predominantly rural landscape with agricultural fields, vegetation and forest resources. The natural environment plays an important role in the lives and livelihoods of the local population. Agriculture, livestock rearing and forest-related activities contribute to household income and food security.

The relatively clean and less congested surroundings are an important strength. However, seasonal variations, inadequate sanitation in some areas, improper waste disposal and dependence on local water sources can create health risks. During the rainy season, waterlogging and contamination of drinking-water sources may increase the risk of waterborne diseases.

Opportunity for improvement: Greater emphasis on safe drinking water, household sanitation, waste management, protection of local water sources and environmentally sustainable agricultural practices can substantially improve community health.

2. Diet and Lifestyle:

The traditional diet is largely based on locally available cereals, rice, vegetables, pulses and other seasonal foods, with non-vegetarian foods being consumed according to household preferences and affordability. Locally available foods can provide a nutritious and culturally appropriate diet when consumed in adequate variety.

However, economic limitations can sometimes restrict dietary diversity. Increasing availability of packaged and processed foods, particularly among younger people, may gradually influence traditional dietary habits. Physical activity remains relatively high among people involved in agriculture and manual labour, although this varies with age and occupation.

Opportunity for improvement: Nutrition education should focus on affordable, locally available and diverse foods rather than expensive dietary recommendations. Greater awareness regarding balanced diets, reduction of excess salt and sugar, and prevention of tobacco and alcohol use can help address the emerging burden of non-communicable diseases.

3. Health and Wellness:

Healthcare in rural communities is influenced by the availability, accessibility and affordability of health services. The village benefits from the presence of government health facilities and public health programmes, which provide services such as immunisation, maternal and child healthcare, family planning and treatment of common illnesses.

At the same time, access to specialised healthcare can be difficult because higher-level hospitals may be located at a considerable distance. Transport, financial constraints and delays in seeking care can become important barriers, particularly for emergencies and chronic illnesses.

Another important challenge is the coexistence of communicable diseases and an increasing burden of non-communicable diseases such as hypertension, diabetes and other lifestyle-related conditions. Preventive healthcare and early screening therefore need greater emphasis.

Opportunity for improvement: Regular screening camps, stronger primary healthcare, improved referral and ambulance services, mental-health awareness, health education and better follow-up of patients with chronic diseases can make healthcare more preventive rather than purely curative.

4. Education and Opportunities:

Education is an important determinant of health and socioeconomic development. Access to schools has improved considerably, and younger generations increasingly recognise education as a pathway towards better employment and living standards.

However, opportunities after secondary education may be limited for some students, particularly when higher education requires migration to larger towns or cities. Economic circumstances, lack of career guidance and limited exposure to different professional opportunities can also influence educational choices.

Opportunity for improvement: Better career counselling, digital learning facilities, vocational education, scholarships and skill-development programmes could provide young people with more opportunities without requiring them to immediately migrate from their communities.

5. Strengths and Challenges:

Strengths:

Strong community relationships: Close social networks can provide emotional, social and practical support during illness or emergencies.

Rich natural environment: Agriculture, forests and other natural resources provide livelihood opportunities and locally available food.

Traditional knowledge and culture: Local food practices, community participation and traditional social systems remain valuable resources for promoting wellbeing.

Growing awareness: Increasing awareness of education, government health schemes and modern healthcare is creating positive changes among younger generations.

Challenges:

Limited access to specialised healthcare: Advanced diagnostic and specialist services may require travel to larger towns or cities.

Transportation and referral barriers: Distance, availability of transport and delays in referral can affect timely treatment, particularly during emergencies.

Water, sanitation and hygiene concerns: Inadequate sanitation and unsafe water practices can contribute to preventable diseases.

Changing disease patterns: Alongside infectious diseases, hypertension, diabetes and other non-communicable diseases are becoming increasingly important.

Limited educational and employment opportunities: Young people may have to migrate to urban areas for higher education and better employment.

6. My Vision for Improvement:

My vision for my village is to create a community where good health is not dependent on one's income, location or ability to travel to a city. Healthcare improvement should begin at the primary level, with strong preventive and promotive services.

Primary healthcare should be strengthened through regular screening for hypertension, diabetes, cancers and other common conditions, along with better maternal and child health services. Emergency referral and ambulance connectivity should also be strengthened so that serious patients can reach appropriate hospitals without unnecessary delay.

Every household should have access to safe drinking water, sanitation and proper waste disposal. These are basic determinants of health, and improvements in these areas can prevent a large number of illnesses.

Education should go beyond basic schooling. Young people should have access to career counselling, digital education, vocational training and skill-development opportunities so that they can build sustainable livelihoods.

Ultimately, the greatest strength of a rural community is its people. By combining this strong sense of community with accessible healthcare, quality education, safe water, better sanitation and sustainable livelihood opportunities, the village can progress towards a healthier and more resilient future. My vision is therefore not simply to build more healthcare facilities, but to create a community where people are empowered to prevent disease, seek timely care and lead healthier lives.

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1. Stress , be it in rural or urban areas, have been found to be correlated to poor lifestyle

2. Sleep disruption

3. Inaccessible to preventive healthcare facilities

4. Encouragement of poor diet with high processed food in the younger generation

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Lifestyle habits driving the rise of diabetes and cancer

Increased consumption of ultra-processed foods, sugar-sweetened beverages, and diets high in salt, sugar, and unhealthy fats.

Physical inactivity and prolonged sitting due to mechanization, desk jobs, and excessive screen time.

Tobacco use (smoked and smokeless) and harmful alcohol consumption.

Obesity resulting from excess calorie intake and reduced energy expenditure.

Poor sleep hygiene and disruption of circadian rhythm due to irregular work schedules and late-night screen use.

Chronic psychological stress and poor mental health.

Reduced intake of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and dietary fibre.

Environmental risk factors such as air pollution and occupational exposure to carcinogens.

Changes to stop this trend

Adopt a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, pulses, nuts, and lean proteins while limiting ultra-processed foods.

Engage in at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity per week and reduce sedentary time.

Quit tobacco in all forms and limit or avoid alcohol.

Maintain a healthy body weight through proper diet and regular exercise.

Ensure 7–9 hours of quality sleep and maintain a regular sleep-wake cycle.

Practice stress management through yoga, meditation, mindfulness, and social support.

Participate in regular health screening for hypertension, diabetes, common cancers, and other non-communicable diseases.

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Reflection on My Village's Healthcare: A Journey into Rural Life

1. Environment & Natural Resources

The village has abundant green spaces, agricultural land, ponds, and relatively clean air.

Most families depend on farming and livestock for their livelihood.

Challenges include seasonal water scarcity or contamination, inadequate waste disposal, poor drainage, and vector breeding during the monsoon.

2. Diet & Lifestyle

Strengths

Consumption of freshly harvested vegetables, fruits, pulses, and home-cooked meals.

Higher levels of physical activity due to agricultural work and walking.

Strong family and community support.

Challenges

Increasing consumption of processed foods, excess salt, sugar, and edible oils.

Tobacco and alcohol use among adults.

Sedentary behaviour among youth due to increased screen time.

Poor sleep hygiene in some individuals.

3. Health & Wellness

Primary healthcare services are available through the Sub-centre/Health and Wellness Centre/PHC with support from ASHA, ANM, and Anganwadi workers.

Immunization, antenatal care, family planning, NCD screening, and health education services are available.

Challenges include shortage of specialists, delayed referrals, transportation barriers, irregular medicine availability, and limited awareness regarding preventive healthcare.

4. Education & Opportunities

Government schools and Anganwadi centres provide education and nutrition services.

Health awareness is improving through school health programmes and community campaigns.

Opportunities exist to strengthen digital literacy, telemedicine, skill development, and health promotion activities.

5. Strengths & Challenges

Strengths

Strong social cohesion and community participation.

Cleaner environment and access to natural resources.

Active lifestyle and traditional healthy dietary habits.

Availability of frontline health workers.

Challenges

Poverty and unemployment.

Poor sanitation and waste management.

Safe drinking water issues in some areas.

Rising burden of non-communicable diseases.

Health misinformation and delayed health-seeking behaviour.

6. My Vision for Improvement (Why?)

My priority would be to strengthen primary healthcare, ensure safe drinking water, improve sanitation, and promote healthy lifestyles through community participation.

This can be achieved by:

Ensuring uninterrupted availability of essential medicines and diagnostic services.

Strengthening NCD screening and follow-up.

Providing safe piped drinking water and household toilets.

Improving solid and liquid waste management.

Conducting regular health education on nutrition, physical activity, tobacco cessation, and mental health.

Expanding telemedicine and digital health services to improve access to specialist care.

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maintain healthy lifestyle and stress management

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With development and with urbanisation the diet has changed with increased westernization.

Introduction of technology and easily available Internet is keeping people glued to screens

Lack of socialisation and exposure to varied online content is increasing stress and crime rates

Disruption of sleep pattern

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1. In rural areas there are reduced physical activity due to mechanization of farming also there is high use of tobacco in the forms of traditional hookah, bidi, khaini and there is less awareness about screening for NCDs and Cancers. The changes we need to bring is health education should be given more, promotion of health lifestyles should be given.

2. In Urban areas there is more consumption of processed foods due to easy availability also most of them have desk job, so it is sedentary lifestyle with high stress level and poor sleep pattern. The changes needed are adoption of healthy lifestyle, stress management etc

3. Sedentary lifestyle: Less than recommended duration of physical activity, more screen time etc.

4. Unhealthy diet: Preference to junk food, high-calorie diet and faulty food practices particularly in urban areas

5. Health care access: Urban-rural inequity in health care access and health seeking behaviour.

6. Inadequate screening: Mainly due to lack of awareness especially in rural areas.

7. Poor treatment adherence: Results from inadequate knowledge, attitude and practice regarding the disease condition..

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1. In rural areas there are reduced physical activity due to mechanization of farming also there is high use of tobacco in the forms of traditional hookah, bidi, khaini and there is less awareness about screening for NCDs and Cancers. The changes we need to bring is health education should be given more, promotion of health lifestyles should be given.

2. In Urban areas there is more consumption of processed foods due to easy availability also most of them have desk job, so it is sedentary lifestyle with high stress level and poor sleep pattern. The changes needed are adoption of healthy lifestyle, stress management etc

3. Sedentary lifestyle: Less than recommended duration of physical activity, more screen time etc.

4. Unhealthy diet: Preference to junk food, high-calorie diet and faulty food practices particularly in urban areas

5. Health care access: Urban-rural inequity in health care access and health seeking behaviour.

6. Inadequate screening: Mainly due to lack of awareness especially in rural areas.

7. Poor treatment adherence: Results from inadequate knowledge, attitude and practice regarding the disease condition..

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MORE RELIANCEON WHEAT THAN MILLTES

GREEN REVOLUTION MAY HELPED COUNTRY HUT HARMED CITIZENS BY OBSERVING SHIFT FROM MILLTE CULTIVATION TO MONEY CROPS

ALCOHOL AND TOBACCO OFCOURSE

SEDNTARY LIFE STYLE DUE TO LESS FIELD WORK, DUE TO LESS RELIANCE FROM CROP INCOME, MORE INCOME SOURCES FRO MDIGITAL MEDIA AND INCREASED NEPAL LABOURERS

MORE SCREEN USAGE DUE TO EQUIVALENT PHONE DISTRIBUTION INALL

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TOBACCO CONSUMPTION, ALCOHOL CONSUMPTION

INCREASING COMPETITION FOR JOBS AND MORE SEDENTARY STUDY ROUTINES

DECREASING RELIABILITY OF INCOME FROM CROPS LEADING TO DECREASED FARM WORK

INCREASING MARKET SCOPE IN RURAL AREAS ALSO

SCHOOLS WITH SCIENCE BLOCKS, BETTER TEACHERS, FAR OFF, COMPELING RELIANCE ON PUBLIC TRANSPORT

RELIANCE ON HIRED LABOUR, ESPECIALLY CHEAP LABOUR FROM NEPAL/KASHMIR FOR FIELD WORKS

SOURCE OF MONEY FROM DIGITAL MEDIA PROMOTING MORE DEVIATION FROM FIELD WORKS

SCREEN USAGE AND PHONE AVAILAIBILTIY IS EQUIVOCAL IN BOTH AREAS

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Lifestyle habits giving rise to NCDs in rural & urban areas-

1. Sedentary lifestyle

2. unhealthy diet nowadays

3. Tobacco , alcohol consumption nowadays.

4. obesity

5. less health awareness

Changes needed--

1. Ensure adequate sleep and stress management.

2. Promote regular physical activity

3. Maintain regular meal timings

4. community participation

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Common habit in Rural and urban area is substance use like tabaco, alcohol even the children consume them in early age.

Lack of physical activity and stress, the mobile addiction has also making people sit in one place for a longer time.

Rural life is also changing, youth are more aspire to do sedentary jobs like urban area then traditional physical activity required rural jobs.

Availability and increased consumption of fast food

Ignorance is also kind of lifestyle we live with, in the sense we ignore early symptoms of disease and don't give medical attention which is required.

Mass awareness and advocacy is required for promoting healthy lifestyle.

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Maintaining a balance diet

Regularly exercise

Stress management

Sound sleep

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Unhealthy lifestyle

Irregular sleeping habits

Consumption of alcohol and Tobacco

Less physical activity

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Stress

Obesity

Lack of physical activity

Disturbed sleep cycle

Bad air quality

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1. In rural areas there are reduced physical activity due to mechanization of farming also there is high use of tobacco in the forms of traditional hookah, bidi, khaini and there is less awareness about screening for NCDs and Cancers. The changes we need to bring is health education should be given more, promotion of health lifestyles should be given.

2. In Urban areas there is more consumption of processed foods due to easy availability also most of them have desk job, so it is sedentary lifestyle with high stress level and poor sleep pattern. The changes needed are adoption of healthy lifestyle, stress management etc.

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1. Clean surroundings with fresh air.

2. The diet consist of mainly home grown organic food and mostly of the people are into farming so there is increased physical activity.

3. basic health care facility is available in SHC-HWC and the nearest PHC is 40 mins away from here.

4. There is primary education available but for higher studies have to go city.

5. The strength is that the community participation is very good.

6. better medical facility, education needed

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1. Sedentary lifestyle: Less than recommended duration of physical activity, more screen time etc.

2. Unhealthy diet: Preference to junk food, high-calorie diet and faulty food practices particularly in urban areas

3. Health care access: Urban-rural inequity in health care access and health seeking behaviour.

4. Inadequate screening: Mainly due to lack of awareness especially in rural areas.

5. Poor treatment adherence: Results from inadequate knowledge, attitude and practice regarding the disease condition.

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1. Unhealthy diets- We should try to incorporate considerate proportion of fresh veggies, fruits, and whole grain in our day to day diet

2. Lack of physical activity(with more and more urbanization, our working habits have changed, leading to sedentary lifestyle)- We need to compulsorily incorporate 30 minutes of moderate physical activity and make it a habit, irrespective of our occupation or work setup

3. more of screen time has taken a toll on our mental health both in rural and urban setup- We should try to restrict our screen time and start living in real world than reel world

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Lifestyle habits fueling rise of disease burden n rural and urban areas are because of;

1. Shifting trends of eating habits where rural masses are also inclined towards junk foods, packaged drinks etc. which is already well accepted in urban settings.

2. Withe the reach of television, mobile phones and digital content to each and every household, irrespective of their geographies (rural or urban), a surge has been observed in rural areas and urban families/ youths watching movies and mobile phones till late night. leading sleep disorders and mores screen time creating mental stress.

3. With the rise in cost of living at both sides (Rural and Urban), and a situation where everybody is making their effort to earn more money for a quality lifestyle affecting them otherwise such as, stress, sleep disorders, unhealthy dietary practices, etc. pushing families to fight with an unseen enemy like diabetes and cancer.

4. With the rise in burning farm residual, not only polluting the urban setting but it is equally harmful for rural population.

5. As the rural population hurriedly following and accepting the urban lifestyle and their inclination towards physical activities are also affected, leading to sedentary lifestyle, without understanding the long term effect on their heath conditions.

6. Usage of alcohol and tobacco is on the rise at ends, leading on the verge of being affected or diagnosed with cancer at any point of time.

7. Water bodies are heavily polluted leading morbidity among rural and urban population.

Hence, steps and actions should be taken to create awareness among both rural and urban settings towards these lifestyles and acceptability towards high risk factors.

1. Informing or rewarding farmers for not burning their farm residuals

2. FLWs at health and other programme verticals should take proactive steps in mass screening and referring the high risk patients and communities to nearest health post for early treatment.

3. Extensive IECs on pros and cons of changing lifestyle.

4. Policies and local steps to safe guard the water bodies from getting contaminated from factories in their surroundings.

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i/ Unhealthy Diets

ii/ Lack of physical activity

iii/ Stress

iv/ Sleep Disorder

v/ Pollution

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STRESS, OBESITY, IMPROPER EATING, NO PHYSICAL ACTIVITY ARE SOME OF THE MAJOR FUELING THE RISE THE NCDs. INCREASED PHYSICAL ACTIVITY , PROPER EATING PATTERN AND HEALTHY DIET, PHYSICAL ACTIVITY ,PURE FOOD INTAKE, LESS STRESS, NO CONSUMPTION OF ALCOHOL AND SMOKE THIS CAN STOP THIS TREND.

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Stress Obesity Improper eating habits, sugar rich foods

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Lifestyle Habits Fueling Diseases and How to Stop Them:
Today, both rural and urban areas are seeing a rise in diseases like diabetes and cancer because of unhealthy lifestyle habits. Many people eat too much junk food, sugary snacks, and processed meals instead of fresh, home-cooked food. Physical activity has also reduced due to long hours of sitting, watching TV, or using mobile phones. In addition, stress, lack of sleep, and use of tobacco or alcohol are making health problems worse.

To stop this trend, we should eat more fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, and reduce sugar and fat in our diets. Regular exercise, yoga, or walking should be part of our daily routine. Avoiding smoking, alcohol, and managing stress through meditation or hobbies can also help. Promoting health education and awareness in both rural and urban communities is important for building a healthier future.

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Increase physical activity by regular desk breaks during working hours.

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Poor lifestyle

Excessive stress

Substance use

Less physical activity

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Bad lifestyle

No physical activity

Junk food

Stress

High usage of mobile phone

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consumption of calorie dense, high fat, high carbohydrate diets

easy availability and affordability of unhealthy food products

increased substance abuse

increased screen time

increased sedentary lifestyle

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1) environment: footpaths for walking

2) home grown produce

however more of a sedentary lifestyle in the village

availability of government health facilities that conduct health camps and IEC activities

improve physical activity and raise awareness among adolescents regarding preventions of NCDs

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1. Unhealthy Diets – Increased consumption of processed foods, sugary drinks, and junk food is contributing to obesity, diabetes, and cancer risks.

2. Lack of Physical Activity – Sedentary lifestyles, with reduced physical work and exercise, are common in both urban and rural settings now.

3. Stress and Sleep Disorders – Rising stress levels and poor sleep patterns weaken immunity and increase the risk of chronic diseases.

4. Environmental and Lifestyle Exposures – Pollution, tobacco use, alcohol consumption, and exposure to harmful chemicals are fueling disease growth.

To stop this trend: Promote healthy eating, encourage regular exercise, reduce stress, avoid tobacco/alcohol, and ensure routine health check-ups.

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Lack of exercise

Junk food

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Exercise

regular sleep

Unprocessed naturally grown food consumption food

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1. Triggering factors

a. Sedentary lifestyle

b. Lack of health monitoring

c. Genetic predisposition

d. Weight gain

2. Changes

a. Proper monitoring

b. Frequent checkup

c. Consultation

d. Monitored eating health habits

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1. Environment and natural resources:

Environment is mostly pollution free due to less usage of motored vehicles. Natural resources are handy and are highly utilized since childhood.

2. Diet and lifestyle:

Villagers have natural and simple lifestyle.

3. Health and wellness:

Although their eating pattern and physical activity is good, people tend to fall sick to lack of quick accessibility of health resources and awareness.

4. Education and opportunities:

Village/rural level education is definitely not high end, however they do attain minimum level. Opportunities tend to fall less due to lack of communication and acquired skills.

5. Strengths and challenges:

a. Strengths: Peaceful and natural

b. Challenges: Lack of many facilities

6. Vision for improvement:

Awareness + continued focus/goal

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Poor sleep

lack of physical activity

Increased Stress

Pollution

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Sedentary lifestyle due to occupation (mostly in urban areas)

Frequent exposure to tobacco and alcohol (both rural and urban)

Irregular sleeping patterns due to work (urban) or screen usage (rural and urban)

Dependent lifestyle (mostly urban)

Including more junk and unwholesome food in the diet

Increased Stress

Insufficient intake of proteins and fibers due to lack of knowledge about diet (mostly rural)

Adding more processed food in day-to-day life

Neglecting the circadian needs

Reduced metabolic activities

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Reflection Parameters

1. Pollution free fresh air and water

2. Healthy light balanced diet. Having dinner before sunset and having 2 meals per day

3. Indulging in farm and agriculture so this contributes to 60 percent of their physical activity

4. The education and awareness regarding diseases are well established and reaches all the persons of the village

5. The strength is the natural resources, and challenge is to maintain the same quality of life in such modernized environment

6. The opportunities of creating more awareness by conducting various meetings and sessions may be included

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🚨 Key Lifestyle Habits Fueling the Rise:

1. Dietary Shifts

Processed foods, high in sugar, unhealthy fats, and additives, are more accessible than ever — even in rural areas now.

Low intake of whole, plant-based foods like fruits, vegetables, legumes, and whole grains.

Excessive consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages and fast food.

2. Sedentary Lifestyles

Both rural and urban populations are moving less. Mechanization in farming, more desk-based jobs, and screen-based entertainment reduce physical activity.

Lack of structured exercise and prolonged sitting time increase obesity, insulin resistance, and inflammation — key drivers for diabetes and several cancers.

3. Poor Sleep Hygiene

Exposure to artificial light, screen time, and irregular sleep patterns disrupt circadian rhythms, contributing to metabolic disorders and possibly cancer risks.

4. Stress and Mental Health Challenges

Chronic stress from economic pressures, social isolation, and urban congestion or rural financial instability elevates cortisol, which negatively affects immunity, glucose metabolism, and cancer risk.

5. Substance Use

Increased rates of tobacco, alcohol, and recreational drug use contribute to various cancers, liver disease, and metabolic syndromes.

6. Environmental Factors

Air and water pollution, exposure to pesticides and industrial chemicals, especially in developing countries.

Use of plastics, microplastics, and endocrine-disrupting chemicals in everyday products.

🌿 Changes We Can Make to Stop This Trend:

🔸 Community and Policy Level

Improve access to affordable, nutritious food: local farmers markets, subsidies for fresh produce.

Urban planning for active living: parks, walkable streets, cycling paths.

Public health campaigns against processed foods, smoking, and excessive alcohol use.

Environmental regulation: cleaner air, water, and safer consumer products.

🔸 Individual and Family Level

Prioritize a whole-food, plant-forward diet: less processed, sugar-laden, and animal-based foods.

Incorporate daily physical activity: walking, gardening, or dancing — it doesn’t have to be a gym.

Practice good sleep hygiene: regular sleep hours, limit screens before bed, natural light exposure.

Stress management techniques: mindfulness, hobbies, social connections, therapy when needed.

Limit or quit smoking and excessive drinking.

Choose eco-friendly, low-toxin products when possible.

✳️ Final Thought:

The rise of these diseases is largely preventable. While structural changes are critical, personal habit shifts can have an immediate impact. Think of it as a ripple effect — your small changes inspire those around you, and over time, communities shift.

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1. Poor Diet

Urban areas: Increased consumption of ultra-processed, calorie-dense, nutrient-poor foods high in sugar, salt, and unhealthy fats.

Rural areas: Often a shift from traditional diets to processed foods due to globalization and urban migration influences.

2. Physical Inactivity

Sedentary jobs, excessive screen time, and car-dependent lifestyles reduce daily movement.

Even in rural areas, mechanization in farming and less manual labor contribute.

3. Chronic Stress & Sleep Deprivation

High-pressure work environments, social isolation, and urban congestion increase stress levels.

Sleep deprivation disrupts hormonal balance, increasing risks for obesity, diabetes, and some cancers.

4. Substance Use

Increased alcohol and tobacco use — common coping mechanisms for stress — are major risk factors for cancer and other diseases.

5. Environmental Pollution

Air and water pollution, particularly in urban areas, have direct links to lung and other cancers.

In rural areas, exposure to pesticides and unsafe water supplies is a significant issue.

6. Limited Access to Preventive Healthcare

Both rural and urban poor populations often lack regular health screenings and early interventions, leading to late-stage diagnoses.

✅ Changes We Can Make to Reverse the Trend:

Individual Level:

Eat more whole, plant-based foods: Focus on vegetables, fruits, legumes, whole grains, nuts, and lean proteins.

Reduce ultra-processed food intake: Limit sugary drinks, processed meats, packaged snacks, and fast food.

Move regularly: Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate activity most days — walking, cycling, dancing, anything enjoyable.

Prioritize sleep: 7–8 hours of quality sleep can regulate metabolism and reduce chronic disease risk.

Manage stress: Mindfulness, community support, hobbies, and unplugging from screens help mental and physical health.

Community & Policy Level:

Create more walkable, green urban environments.

Incentivize healthy food markets in both rural and urban food deserts.

Implement school and workplace wellness programs.

Improve access to affordable preventive healthcare and health education.

Tighten regulations on environmental pollutants and food industries.

✳️ Final Thought:

The modern lifestyle is largely incompatible with our biological makeup, which evolved for active, varied, low-stress lives with whole, natural foods. The key is to consciously reintroduce those elements into our daily routines and reshape our environments to support health rather than undermine it.

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avoid alcohol and smoking , becoz this is common in rural and urban both areas, use healthy diet and early screening

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1. unpollute environment and fresh air.

2. fresh and locally grown food, un-fortified products.

3. health & wellness is lack thn urban

4. now a days education is incresed but still opportunities are limited

5. strength: helthy life, physical excersie and stress free

challenges : lack of emergency medical facility.

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1. Increased consumption of processed foods, refined carbs, and packaged foods.

2. Lack of advanced healthcare services and awareness among the people(rural).

3. Sedentary lifestyle(mostly urban).

4. Long hours on screens (both rural and urban).

5. Stress in metro cities.

6. Financial instability in rural areas is causing stress among them.

7. Diet that is low in fibre and has high levels of glucose.

8. Easy access to tobacco and tobacco products.

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1. The environment is clean and has less pollution compared to cities.

2. Natural resources are plenty, be it clean river water, trees along the roads, etc.

3. Diet is healthy as most of the grains, fruits and vegetables are locally grown and sourced.

4. Lifestyle is healthy, people engage more in work involving physical activity and maintain a circadian lifestyle.

5. Education is also much better than in older days, both private and government institutions are present.

6. Opportunities are a bit scarce, people move to the nearby larger town for better opportunities.

7. Strengths: Access to all natural resources, clean food, clean air, clean water, and less pollution.

Challenges: Advanced Healthcare, Knowledge about certain diseases and their precautions needed, Electricity(power cuts and voltage fluctuations).

8. Vision for improvement: Improved advanced healthcare and resolution of electricity issues.

For better overall development.

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High intake of processed foods, sugary beverages, and refined carbs.

In rural areas, traditional diets are increasingly being replaced by packaged foods.

In rural areas, mechanization of agriculture has reduced physical labor.

Smoking and chewing tobacco are major cancer and heart disease risk factors.

Urban stress from fast-paced life; rural stress from financial insecurity and lack of services.

Chronic stress contributes to metabolic dysfunction and unhealthy coping behaviors.

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No screening facility is available.

Unhealth lifestyle

Less physical activity work

Lack of Healthcare services and infrastructure facilities

Lack of awareness for disease prevention and control

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1. Demographic changes

2. Lifestyle changes

3. Increased consumption of HFHS diet

4. Less availability of healthy food

5. Expensive healthy food

6. Lack of quality healthcare

7. lack of education and awareness about preventive measures

8. Increased air waiter noise pollution

9. Increased stress

10. Disturbed sleep

Strategies can be

1. Urban or rural setting which will increase physical activity increase walkability index

2. Less availability of non nutrtious food

3. Increase awareness about preventive measures through IEC materials

4. Increase quality of Healthcare centers.

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1. Environment and natural resources :

There is less amount of all types of pollution in rural area.

2. Diet and lifestyle :

Fresh fruits and vegetables are in great amount which will reduce the risk of NCD . They do more physical activity.

3. Health & wellness :

In rural area there is lack of accessibility to healthcare center because of lack of connectivity and awareness about health.

4. Education & opportunities :

lack of quality education and opportunities are there in rural area which increases unemployment and less advancement of technology in rural area.

5. Strengths and challenges

Strengths are good environment , lifestyle , food .

Challenges are lack of healthcare accessibility ,awareness , lack of education ,opportunities.

6. Strategies can be

Health education

Increases awareness about health coverage

Telemedicine ,mobile medical unit

Health camps

Weekly once meeting with there people to know more about there problems.

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There are certain common set of reasons for rise of NCD in both urban and rural areas while they have there respective reasons as well.

Examples of common reason for both Urban and rural areas:

1. Alcohol and tobbaco usage

2. Stress

3. Negligence towards regular check ups

4. Food adulteration and excessive use of pesticides and foid preservatives.

Respective reasons for increase in NCD in rural areas:

1. Non availability of healthcare services nearby to them.

2. Poor infrastructure and connectivity to the developed areas.

Respective reasons for increase in NCD in urban areas:

1. Adaptation of junk food culture inspired by western countries.

2. Stress related to education, job and lifestyle.

3. Poor lifestyle and dietary management

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Fueling the rise of NCD in both rural and urban areas

1. ENVIRONMENTAL MODIFICATION - Now with the increase of industrialization and population villages are also not untouched by pollution to a certain extend, urbans areas always has pollution but rural are now with cheap labour and cheap land are exposed to occupational hazards which sometimes untreated give birth to cancers and other NCD

2. Increase hunger - After green revolution to satisfy the hunger of growing population, pesticides and other chemicals used in the field is touching everyone's health. Increased poultry and dairy needs cannot be fulfilled without use of medication and preservatives, long term effects on health is known by all

3. Digital India - With cheap internet and phones on EMI no village is untouched by Social media, long sitting hours on social media which earlier used to socialise or some gardening is wasted with no labour and long sitting hour, Hence leading to a Sedentary lifestyle

4. Change in eating habits - Earlier where a normal villager was not aware of chicken nuggets, sausages or cokes with time is consuming processed food which is also likely to increase the chances of NCD

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Fueling the Rise:

1. Poor Diets: More processed foods, fewer healthy options.

2. Less Activity: Sedentary lifestyles are common.

3. Increased Stress: Daily pressures impact health.

4. Substance Use: Tobacco and alcohol remain risks.

5. Environmental Factors: Pollution plays a role.

6. Healthcare Access: Uneven access affects detection.

Turning the Trend:

1. Healthy Food: Make nutritious options easier to access.

2. More Movement: Encourage active living.

3. Manage Stress: Promote well-being.

4. Reduce Harm: Limit tobacco and alcohol use.

5. Clean Environment: Address pollution.

6. Better Healthcare: Improve access and awareness.

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Environment & Natural Resources:

1. Key Features: What are the main environmental features around here? Think rivers, agricultural land, forests, ponds, etc.

2. Resource Interaction: How do people in the village use these resources? For example, do they farm, fish, or collect firewood?

3. Environmental Challenges: Are there any issues like pollution, water scarcity, or deforestation?

4. Impact on Health: How does the environment affect the health and well-being of the community?

Diet & Lifestyle:

1. Food Sources and Diet: What are the common food sources and dietary habits? Are people eating locally grown vegetables, grains, or animal products?

2. Physical Activity: How active are people in their daily lives? Do they engage in agriculture, walking, or manual labor?

3. Lifestyle Habits: Are there any common lifestyle habits, both healthy and unhealthy, like tobacco use or alcohol consumption?

4. Health Contribution: How do diet and lifestyle impact the overall health of the community?

Health & Wellness:

1. Common Health Issues: What are the common health problems in the village?

2. Healthcare Facilities: What healthcare services are available? Are there primary health centers, community health workers, or private clinics?

3. Healthcare Awareness and Access: How aware are people of healthcare services, and how accessible are these services?

4. Traditional Practices: Are there any traditional healing practices?

5. Healthcare Challenges: What are the main obstacles to accessing quality healthcare?

Education & Opportunities:

1. Educational Facilities: What schools are available? Are there primary and secondary schools?

2. Literacy Levels: What is the literacy rate in the community?

3. Employment Opportunities: What are the main job opportunities? Do people work in agriculture, local businesses, or migrate for work?

4. Impact on Well-being: How do education and job opportunities affect the villagers' well-being and future prospects?

Strengths & Challenges:

1. Village Strengths: What are the village's strengths? For example, strong community bonds, access to fresh food, traditional knowledge, or a peaceful environment.

2. Village Challenges: What are the significant challenges? Are there issues like limited healthcare, poor infrastructure, lack of educational opportunities, or unemployment?

Vision for Improvement:

1. Area for Improvement: Based on your observations, what is one key area that needs improvement? For example, better healthcare access, a well-equipped school, or reliable clean water.

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Following are the risk factors in both Urban and rural areas:

Increased poor Diets (High in Processed Foods & Sugar)

Fast food, sugary drinks, and ultra-processed snacks are everywhere now.

Diets low in fibre, fruits, and vegetables increase the risk for diabetes, cancer, heart disease, etc.

Sedentary Lifestyles

Whether it's desk jobs in cities or more mechanized farming in rural areas, physical activity is down.

no regular exercise.

Health and Wellness

Stress and Mental Health

Chronic stress contributes to inflammation, poor sleep, disturbed melatonin secretion in our body and unhealthy coping mechanisms (like smoking or overeating).

Mental health support is often inadequate, especially in rural areas.

Education and opportunities:

Lack of educational knowledge in terms of healthy food, food adulteration.

Increased Tobacco and Alcohol Use

Still major contributors to cancer, liver disease, and more.

Marketing often targets low-income and marginalized communities.

Increasing Pollution

Urban areas face more air pollution; rural areas face pesticide exposure.

Some cancers have environmental links (lung, breast, prostate).

Sound pollution from vehicles, loud speakers etc.

Measures to stop this trends:

Shift toward Whole Foods: More home-cooked meals, fruits, veggies, whole grains, and plant-based proteins. Shifting to ragi, millets etc

Eating balanced diet with low glycaemic index food.

Move More, Sit Less: Daily walks, biking, yoga—even short bursts of activity matter.

Stress Management: Meditation, therapy, journaling, or just better sleep.

Quit Smoking / Reduce Drinking.

Get Screened: Early detection saves lives.

Health Education: Make nutrition, mental health, and physical activity part of the school curriculum.

Safer Environments: Cleaner air, walkable cities, green spaces.

Healthcare Access: Mobile clinics, telemedicine, expanded insurance coverage. Improved Community health centres and Primary Health Centres working.

Dr. Shrimali Sumi.

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STRESS

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Education and healthcare system in rural areas is not well developed - hence awareness among the rural people is limited. They often do not get regular health check-ups done or do not recognise early symptoms of diseases. Although they procure fresh and locally grown fruits and vegetables, they face financial constraints, hence are unable to go on the path of development. Stress is an important factor for lifestyle diseases in both rural and urban areas. It is the responsibility of the government to provide better education opportunities to rural areas, strengthen the healthcare facilities, create awareness, improve transport facilities, and so on, so that rural areas are not lagging behind.

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Lifestyle habits causing risk in Diabetes & Cancer-

1. Eating too much junk food

2. Lack of physical activity

3. Irregular sleep cycle

4. High stress levels

5. Smoking & Alcohol use

Changes to stop this-

1. Eat a balanced & healthy diet

2. Exercise at least 150 minutes a week

3. Get enough sleep

4. Reduce stress through yoga or meditation

5. Avoid tobacco & limit alcohol

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Reflecting on my village's healthcare- A journey into rural life:

My hometown Budni, located in Sehore district of M.P. offers a healthy rural environment, with fresh air & less pollution. We are blessed with the river Narmada, which adds to the natural beauty & provides clean water.

Every week we have market days where we get fresh fruits & vegetables making our diet more natural & healthy. People follow simple lifestyle with sleeping on time & staying physically active through daily work.

We have Government hospital ensuring basic healthcare needs.

We have both government & private schools for good learning opportunities.

We have all these strengths but challenges includes limited advanced healthcare, lack of knowledge about preventive measures & occasional power cuts.

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increased consumption of processed food, stress, sedentary lifestyle causes rise in NCD.

Screening along with health education to prevent NCD. Lifestyle modifications such as balanced diet, physical activity and stress management can help reducing burden of NCD.

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strength- local cultural dietary practices, engagement in physical activity and access to non or less contaminated environment resources.

weakness- illiteracy, scarce resources, poor screening and cultural barriers

opportunities- use of newer technology, community engagement