As we confront the alarming rise of non-communicable diseases (NCDs), one thing is becoming clear: the environment plays a far greater role in our health than previously recognised.
Non-communicable diseases such as heart disease, cancer, diabetes and chronic respiratory illnesses are no longer just linked to genetics or individual lifestyle choices. These conditions are being shaped and exacerbated by the environment around us — through the air we breathe, the water we drink, and the food we consume.
The world has long focused on communicable diseases, but the reality is NCDs are now responsible for over 70 per cent of global deaths yearly. Yet, the link between environmental degradation and these diseases often goes unnoticed in public discourse. Environmental factors are silent contributors, influencing the rise of NCDs as much as our personal habits.
Take air pollution, for example. It is one of the leading causes of NCDs. As cities grow and industrial activities intensify, the quality of the air deteriorates. Respiratory diseases such as asthma and bronchitis are increasing, and more insidiously, air pollution contributes to cardiovascular diseases and cancer. In many urban centers, clean air is becoming a rare commodity, directly affecting the quality of life and life expectancy.
Similarly, the water we drink has a direct impact on our health. Water contamination, particularly in developing regions, is a growing concern. Industrial pollutants and heavy metals are finding their way into rivers and water systems, creating health crises in communities that depend on these sources.
These contaminants are linked not only to infectious diseases but to chronic conditions like kidney failure and neurological disorders. The necessity of clean water cannot be overstated—it is a fundamental right, essential for health and longevity.
What’s more, our environment directly influences our diets and availability of nutritious food. Unsustainable agricultural practices, coupled with the mass production of ultra-processed foods, are creating nutritional disparities. In many low-income areas, food deserts—places where access to affordable, healthy food is limited—are becoming more prevalent. This lack of access to nutritious options fuels conditions like obesity, diabetes, and hypertension.
Governments and policymakers must prioritise environmental regulations, ensuring stricter controls on air and water quality.
On a personal level, each of us has a role to play in protecting both our health and the environment. Choosing sustainable practices—reducing our carbon footprint, cutting down on meat consumption, and supporting eco-friendly products—are steps we can all take. While individual actions may seem small, collectively, they can help curb the rise of NCDs and contribute to a healthier planet.
Time for action is now. Planting trees, protecting our ecosystems, and adopting green practices are no longer just environmental issues—they are crucial steps in reducing the prevalence of NCDs and safeguarding the health of future generations. Each tree planted is not only a contribution to a healthier environment, but also a means to curb the growing threat of lifestyle diseases.
-The writer is lead obstetrician gynaecologist at Savannah Hospital
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