NEW DELHI: A startling report from the Government of India suggests that more than one-third of children aged 5-9 may suffer from high triglycerides, a serious health risk linked to heart disease. While Jammu and Kashmir, West Bengal, and several northeastern states top the prevalence list, Kerala and Maharashtra report significantly lower figures.
Released on September 25 during the 29th Conference of Central and State Statistical Organisations in Chandigarh, the report ‘Children in India 2025’ highlights alarming health trends among the nation’s youth. The Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation emphasized the need for urgent health initiatives to address the rising concerns of childhood health.
According to the report, high triglyceride levels have reached distressing proportions in various states. In West Bengal, a staggering 67 percent of children display elevated blood fat levels, followed by 64 percent in Sikkim and 55 percent in Nagaland. Assam and Jammu and Kashmir reported figures of 57 percent and 50 percent, respectively.
In contrast, Kerala and Maharashtra show the lowest prevalence rates at 16.6 percent and 19.1 percent, highlighting regional disparities in children’s health in India.
The report compiles data from credible sources, including the National Family Health Survey 2019-21 and the Comprehensive National Nutrition Survey 2016-18. These statistics provide insight into the broader challenges facing India’s youth, particularly concerning health.
Beyond triglyceride levels, the report also discusses neonatal health issues. Prematurity and low birth weight constitute the leading causes of newborn mortality in India, with a national prevalence rate of 48 percent during the first 29 days of life. Birth asphyxia and birth-related trauma rank second and third, affecting 16 percent and 9 percent of newborns, respectively.
As the data indicates, childhood obesity and related health issues are not limited to younger children. The report paints a concerning picture of teenage health as well, classifying 5 percent of the nation’s teenagers as hypertensive. Delhi shows the highest prevalence of 10 percent, followed by Uttar Pradesh at 8.6 percent and Manipur at 8.3 percent.
Moreover, an alarming 16 percent of adolescents in India are reported to have elevated triglyceride levels. These figures underscore the urgent need for health education and lifestyle modifications to mitigate long-term health consequences.
In addition to health assessments, the report reveals significant information on literacy rates among children. It reports that overall, 63.1 percent of children and adolescents in India are literate, with the rate climbing to 73.1 percent for those aged seven and above. Despite the positive trend, disparities remain, with over 80 percent of boys in the 7-9 age group being literate compared to 81.2 percent of girls.
This comprehensive report not only sheds light on the pressing health issues facing children in India but also signals the need for more targeted policies. Experts believe that the findings call for an immediate intervention to promote healthier lifestyles, nutritional awareness, and improved healthcare access for the country’s youngest citizens.
The report, aimed at policymakers, educators, and healthcare professionals, serves as a critical reminder of the multifaceted challenges that affect children’s health and education. As India looks toward a healthier future, proactive measures and awareness campaigns can significantly alter these disturbing statistics.
