Half of medically certified deaths in 2024 due to heart, lung diseases: ORGI data

Heart and lung diseases accounted for half of all medically certified deaths in India during 2024, according to data from the Registrar General of India (ORGI). This statistic highlights a significant burden of non-communicable diseases within the country.

While the data requires careful interpretation due to various caveats, the figures suggest a potentially increasing trend in deaths linked to lifestyle-related diseases. Experts also point to the adverse effects of India's persistent air pollution as a possible contributing factor to this mortality burden. Health agencies, both within India and internationally, have repeatedly raised alarms about the poor air quality in many parts of the country.

The findings underscore the dual challenge India faces: managing the growing prevalence of lifestyle diseases, often associated with changing dietary habits and sedentary lifestyles, and mitigating the health impacts of environmental factors like air pollution. Addressing these interconnected issues is crucial for improving public health outcomes.