Chandigarh, July 23: More than 2,300 diabetes-related treatment episodes amounting to nearly ₹6.5 crore have been processed under Punjab’s Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojana as of 21 July 2026. Data released by the State Health Agency reveals that the disease is increasingly striking the state’s workforce, with adults between 36 and 60 years accounting for the largest share of hospital admissions at 1,123 cases. Senior citizens above 60 registered 809 cases, while youth aged 17–35 recorded 243 cases, and children up to 16 years accounted for 125 cases.
Diabetic ketoacidosis, a life-threatening condition driven by severely elevated blood sugar, recorded the highest volume of medical claims. Severe complications such as diabetic foot, stemming from prolonged vascular and nerve damage, formed the second largest treatment category. A significant number of hospitalised individuals required critical interventions including intensive care, diabetic foot surgery, dialysis, blood transfusions, and specialized diagnostic scans.
State Health and Family Welfare Minister Dr. Balbir Singh expressed deep concern over the rising trend among working individuals. “These are not people who have reached the twilight of life. They are the state’s workforce, the people raising families, running businesses, paying loans and supporting ageing parents. When diabetes pushes this age group into hospital, the impact stretches far beyond the patient,” Dr. Balbir Singh affirmed.
Global health statistics from the World Health Organization attribute the wider surge in diabetes to sedentary habits, processed diets, tobacco use, and alcohol consumption, compounded by long working hours and chronic stress. While the universal health cover under Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann offers crucial financial protection during advanced medical emergencies, public health guidance maintains that early detection, balanced nutrition, and active routines remain essential to avoid severe complications.
“Preventing diabetes is far easier than treating its consequences. Do not wait for complications to occur. Hospitals can save lives, but they cannot give people back the years lost to neglect,” Dr. Balbir Singh declared, urging citizens to get screened regularly.
