The Growing Burden of Lifestyle-Related diseases

2 minute read

The Modern world has a growing burden of diseases that can be labelled diseases of Modernity a they were not as frequent before now. These have replaced the leading causes of morbidity and mortality.

At the global level in 2019, seven out of the ten leading causes of death were chronic non-communicable diseases (NCDs). These conditions—largely preventable and often influenced by lifestyle—were responsible for a staggering 74% of all deaths worldwide.¹

Among these, cardiovascular diseases alone accounted for 32% of global deaths in the same year.²

Adding to the concern, data from the World Health Organization (WHO) in 2016 revealed that 39% of adults worldwide were overweight or obese, with one-third of those classified as obese.³

These are sobering statistics. Chronic, lifestyle-related illnesses—sometimes referred to as “diseases of modernity”—such as ischemic heart disease, stroke, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), Alzheimer's disease, and type 2 diabetes—are rising at unprecedented rates. While these conditions are not new, the speed and scale of their growth is deeply concerning.

A Longer Life, But Not Necessarily a Healthier One

In a parallel trend, life expectancy has increased across the globe. More people are now expected to live beyond the age of 60 than ever before.⁴ While this is a testament to medical and technological advancement, the gains in lifespan are increasingly being overshadowed by a decline in healthspan—the years of life lived free from chronic illness or disability.

A major driver of this decline is overweight and obesity, now affecting not just adults but also children and adolescents. The earlier these conditions develop, the worse the outcomes.

Understanding Body Weight: BMI and Beyond

A common and accessible (but not without it's own shortccomings) measure to assess weight status is the Body Mass Index (BMI):

BMI = Weight (kg) ÷ Height² (m²)

According to standard WHO definitions:

A BMI of 25–29.9 is classified as overweight
A BMI of 30 or higher is classified as obese

However, South Asian populations face a higher risk of lifestyle-related diseases at lower BMI levels compared to Caucasian populations. As a result, the WHO recommends adjusted BMI cut-offs (between 22 and 25) for different Asian populations, along with waist circumference as an additional risk indicator.⁵

So—what is your BMI? What about your family members’ and loved ones’? These numbers are not merely academic. They are critical risk indicators that help us understand and manage our future health.

There are better ways to measure body fat easily available now with Body composition measurement enabled weighing machines.

Why It Matters for Everyone

Regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, or socioeconomic status, achieving and maintaining a healthy body weight is one of the most effective ways to prevent disease and promote overall well-being.

Here are five core lifestyle factors that play a major role in managing body weight and improving health outcomes:

A balanced, whole-food diet
Regular physical activity, with variety and challenge
Restful, adequate sleep
Effective stress management
Nourishing social connections

(Each of these areas is rich and complex enough to deserve a own book of it's own!)

These pillars work together to address the root causes of many chronic non-communicable diseases. They are not quick fixes—but they are sustainable, powerful, and essential.

The Path Forward

If we are to fully enjoy the gift of longer lifespans, we must take a collective and committed approach to improving how we live. The shift toward a healthier lifestyle requires time, intention, and persistence. There are no shortcuts. As the old saying goes, Rome wasn’t built in a day.

But the journey is worth it.

Let’s start now. For our own sake, and for the generations to come.