Health officials in Andhra Pradesh are sounding a cautious alarm after a massive screening effort revealed stark disparities in non-communicable diseases across the state. The NCD 4.0 program, which has reached over 2.82 crore people, uncovered nearly 60 lakh hypertension cases and over 48 lakh diabetes cases—with Bapatla district emerging as a particular concern.

Key facts

  • 2.82 crore people screened under NCD 4.0 program
  • 59.29 lakh hypertension cases detected statewide
  • 48.15 lakh diabetes cases identified
  • Bapatla district: 19.65% hypertension, 16.89% diabetes prevalence
  • Alluri Sitharama Raju district: 5.63% hypertension, 1.51% diabetes prevalence

The District Divide

Bapatla's numbers stand out dramatically—nearly one in five residents screened showed hypertension, while diabetes affected almost 17% of those tested. West Godavari and East Godavari districts followed with concerningly high rates. Meanwhile, the predominantly tribal Alluri Sitharama Raju district presented a strikingly different picture, with hypertension at just 5.63% and diabetes at a remarkably low 1.51%.

Lifestyle Links and Cancer Findings

Health Minister Satya Kumar Yadav pointed to traditional lifestyles in tribal areas as a likely factor in ASR district's better outcomes, noting natural diets and higher physical activity levels. He called for scientific study to understand the protective factors at work. The screening also identified thousands of suspected cancer cases, with confirmation of 2,026 oral, 3,571 breast, and 2,076 cervical cancers through follow-up testing.

Race Against Time

With the NCD 4.0 survey concluding soon, officials are making a final push to reach the remaining population. Commissioner of Health and Family Welfare Chakradhar Babu briefed the minister on the program's progress as the state works to complete what represents one of India's most comprehensive health screenings to date.