CONTEXT

• The ‘Cause of Death in India 2019-21’ report by Sample Registration System (SRS) highlights cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) as the leading cause of death in India.
• Report released by the Registrar General & Census Commissioner, Ministry of Home Affairs.
• 30.2% of all deaths from non-communicable diseases (NCDs) were due to heart-related conditions.
• Urban areas show a slightly higher proportion of CVD-related deaths than rural areas.

CONCEPT: UNDERSTANDING CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASES

• Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) refer to disorders of the heart and blood vessels, including:
  • Coronary artery disease (heart attacks)
  • Cerebrovascular disease (strokes)
  • Hypertension-related complications
• Risk factors include:
  • Poor lifestyle (sedentary habits, smoking, unhealthy diet)
  • Obesity, diabetes, high cholesterol
  • Stress and lack of physical activity
• CVDs are non-communicable but preventable with lifestyle interventions and regular screening.
• WHO and national health bodies identify CVDs as a priority area for public health policy.

CURRENT: KEY FINDINGS FROM THE SRS REPORT

• Cardiovascular diseases account for:
  • 32% of male deaths, 27.7% of female deaths
  • Highest in northern India (34.2%), lowest in central India (22.5%)
• Other major causes of death:
  • Respiratory infections (9.2%), neoplasms (6%), diabetes (3.7%)
  • Unintentional injuries and motor vehicle accidents also notable
• Non-communicable diseases now cause 54.9% of total deaths, while communicable/maternal/nutritional causes are 23.9%
• Child mortality: Mostly within 29 days of birth due to prematurity, low birth weight, pneumonia, birth trauma
• Youth (15–29 years): Deaths due to road accidents, suicide, CVDs, tuberculosis, etc.
• Positive trend: Mortality is shifting to older age groups indicating better health care access.