Have you ever wondered why Indians are suddenly discussing their genes and health? It's not a fad; it's an actual change occurring in the way we approach staying healthy. What was once a niche or experimental area has now taken hold among Indians across different segments. Indians are increasingly turning to genetic well-being to learn about their susceptibility to respiratory ailments, such as asthma and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), which are on the rise because of pollution and lifestyle modifications.
We spoke to Dr Ajeet Singh, Allergy Asthma and Pulmonologist and Advisory Member, Aciana, Jaipur, who explained why Indians spend more on genetic wellness.
According to Frontiers in Genetics, there are DNA-based tests available that tackle various issues in healthcare, ranging from disease prevention to molecular diagnosis. For preventive healthcare, genetic testing assesses an individual's lifelong risk of developing diseases, their susceptibility to specific biological traits, and various health factors. Additionally, these tests evaluate how a person responds to medications regarding their effectiveness and the potential for adverse effects. These tests serve as screening methods to create an effective plan for minimising disease risk, postponing or preventing symptoms, and managing current health conditions.
1. The Influence of Family and Tradition
a. Intergenerational Health Focus
- Family health in India is not just about the immediate nuclear family. A strong emphasis on caring for elders and future generations makes people aware of inherited conditions and genetic risk factors.
- Gene-based screens aid in the early identification of susceptibility, allowing families to pre-emptively intervene for better outcomes.
b. Cultural Beliefs and Preventive Care
- Traditionally, Indian culture has emphasised holistic health strategies, such as Ayurveda and yoga, focusing more on prevention than cure.
- Genetic testing aligns with these preventive measures, further enhancing its acceptability.
Also Read: Empowering Genetic Testing: The Role of BRCA1 and BRCA2 Testing in Understanding Cancer
2. Technological Advancements and Accessibility
a. Reduced Costs and Wider Reach
- The cost of genetic tests has reduced significantly in the last ten years due to technological advances.
- Increased availability through the internet and telemedicine websites ensures that a person no longer has to travel to major cities or expert centres to avail themselves of genetic testing and guidance.
b. Expanding Ecosystem of Experts
- More specialised genetic clinics and laboratories have made it easier for patients to have access to professionals trained in genomics and personalised medicine.
- Higher numbers of genetic counsellors make it easier for individuals to interpret test results and develop individualised health plans.
3. Changing Lifestyle and Health Priorities
a. Rise in Chronic Diseases
- Lifestyle disorders, such as diabetes, cardiovascular illnesses, and certain cancers are on the rise in India.
- Genetic screenings can identify predispositions, encouraging individuals to make dietary, fitness, and treatment changes earlier, thereby reducing long-term healthcare costs.
b. Health Trends Around the Globe
- With globalisation and information access, Indians know international best practices in preventive healthcare.
- Knowing what genes contribute to health and disease has initiated a movement of proactive management of health, where preventive measures are now investments, not costs.
4. Empowered Consumers and Personalised Medicine
a. Health as a Personal Investment
- India's expanding middle-class values education, professional growth, and life quality. This has translated into a willingness to pay for health-related services that yield long-term returns.
- Personalised medicine based on genetic data to tailor treatment is appealing to consumers who want to get precise interventions with less trial and error.
b. Apps and Digital Platforms
- Health portals on the internet and mobile applications provide easy access to sets of genetic tests, interpretation of results, and follow-up visits.
- This online shift allows patients to be in control of health decisions, from ordering tests to monitoring lifestyle changes based on genetic results.
5. Challenges and Considerations
a. Data Privacy and Ethics
- Genetic data is highly personal, and issues concerning data security, ethical application, and abuse by third parties remain.
- Having clear-cut legal frameworks and stringent privacy controls is essential in ensuring trust levels and facilitating higher utilisation.
b. Unequal Access
- Despite genetic wellness services being more widespread, they remain concentrated in urban areas and among the well-off.
- Narrowing the disparity in rural and underserved communities will require continuous efforts in education, government efforts, and health infrastructure.
Bottomline
Dr Singh concluded, "The increased popularity of genetic wellness in India mirrors a larger trend toward preventive and customised healthcare. Family-oriented values, advances in technology, and increased lifestyle-related diseases have all pushed Indians to invest in genetic counselling and testing. This increased awareness enables people to take positive action, reducing healthcare costs and enhancing the quality of life in the long term."
[Disclaimer: This article contains information provided by an expert and is for informational purposes only. Hence, we advise you to consult your professional if you are dealing with any health issue to avoid complications.]