ABSTRACT
Since India attained independence in 1947, the country has witnessed remarkable progress in the health status of its population. In addition, notable progress in economic and social development has taken place, which has also in no small measure contributed to the improvements in health. However, many challenges remain including wide social inequalities that impede further progress. Over the past few decades Indian society has experienced major transitions that have impacted on health. Profound changes have occurred in economic development, nutritional status, fertility and mortality rates and, consequently, the disease profile has undergone changes. Although substantial progress has been achieved in controlling communicable diseases, they still contribute significantly to the national disease burden. Concomitantly, India has witnessed the emergence and accelerated rise of chronic non communicable diseases (NCDs) resulting in a double burden of pre and post transitional diseases. In this chapter, we review these transitions and their contribution to the rising burden of NCDs in India.
