Daijiworld Media Network- Mumbai

Mumbai, Feb 7: Sepsis, a life-threatening condition caused by the body's extreme response to infection, is a silent killer in India. While cancer receives significant attention in terms of research, treatment facilities, and awareness, sepsis remains underdiagnosed and undertreated, leading to a higher death toll.

Studies indicate that sepsis accounts for a significant proportion of hospital deaths in India, surpassing fatalities from cancer. Several factors contribute to this high mortality rate:

1. Lack of Awareness and Early Diagnosis

Unlike cancer, which has dedicated screening programs and awareness campaigns, sepsis remains relatively unknown among the general population. Its symptoms—fever, rapid heart rate, confusion, and breathing difficulties—are often mistaken for other infections, delaying crucial treatment.

2. Inadequate Healthcare Infrastructure

Many hospitals, especially in rural areas, lack the necessary diagnostic tools and intensive care units (ICUs) to manage sepsis effectively. Timely administration of antibiotics and organ support is critical, but delays in reaching medical facilities often prove fatal.

3. Widespread Antibiotic Resistance

India has one of the highest rates of antibiotic resistance, making infections harder to treat. Unregulated use of antibiotics leads to the development of superbugs that do not respond to conventional treatments, increasing the risk of sepsis-related complications.

4. High Burden of Infections

Poor sanitation, contaminated water, and inadequate infection control measures in hospitals contribute to the spread of bacterial infections, a primary cause of sepsis. Neonates, elderly individuals, and those with weakened immune systems are particularly vulnerable.

5. Delayed and Inadequate Treatment

In many cases, sepsis is diagnosed too late, by which time multiple organ failure has already set in. Additionally, financial constraints prevent many patients from accessing life-saving interventions such as ventilators and dialysis.

Addressing the Sepsis Crisis

• Public Awareness Campaigns: Just as cancer awareness has improved early detection rates, educating people about sepsis symptoms and the importance of timely medical intervention can save lives.

• Strengthening Healthcare Facilities: More ICUs, better diagnostic tools, and trained medical professionals are crucial for improving sepsis survival rates.

• Regulating Antibiotic Use: Implementing strict policies on antibiotic prescriptions can help prevent drug resistance and improve treatment effectiveness.

• Improving Sanitation and Hygiene: Addressing the root causes of infections through better hygiene practices and vaccination programs can reduce sepsis cases significantly.

Conclusion

Sepsis remains a major but underrecognized health crisis in India. While cancer continues to be a major cause of concern, sepsis-related deaths are preventable with better awareness, timely medical intervention, and stronger healthcare policies. Addressing this issue should be a public health priority to save thousands of lives every year.