Bengaluru: Cancer has been identified as the fastest-growing illness in India, with a year-on-year increase of 10–12% in incidence rates, particularly among individuals over the age of 40. Women are disproportionately affected, showing significantly higher rates compared to men. Cardiac disorders are the second-most prevalent health challenge, with rising cases and costs primarily impacting men over 40, according to a recent report.
The Indian Healthscape 2024 report by Medi Assist sheds light on critical healthcare trends and challenges across the country, highlighting rising hospitalization costs, the growing burden of critical illnesses, and the urgent need for accessible and affordable healthcare services.
Respiratory ailments are also on the rise, with treatment costs increasing by 10–13 per cent annually. These conditions are a leading cause of hospitalization among children, particularly in regions like Karnataka, Maharashtra, and the National Capital Region.
Cataract surgeries remain the most commonly performed procedure among senior citizens, with cases steadily rising post-COVID-19. Regions such as Delhi, Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, and Haryana have reported the highest surges in hospitalization costs. Cities like Mumbai, Guntur, and Noida stand out as major contributors to this trend.
The report also raises concerns about fraud and abuse in health insurance, which places additional financial strain on insurers and delays claim settlements for beneficiaries. Common fraudulent practices include document forgery and unnecessary medical procedures, which drive up premiums and administrative challenges.
Amid these trends, the report underscores the critical need to address medical inflation, improve healthcare access, and develop targeted strategies to enhance patient outcomes. These steps are essential to ensuring affordability and equity within India’s healthcare ecosystem.
