News

The Diseases of the circulatory system emerged as the leading cause of death in India in 2023, accounting for 36.4% of all medically certified deaths, according to a report released by the Office of the Registrar General of India under the Medical Certification of Cause of Death (MCCD) framework.

Key Points

1. Circulatory system diseases caused over one-third (36.4%) of medically certified deaths in India in 2023.
2. These include heart diseases, cerebrovascular diseases (stroke), and pulmonary circulation disorders.
3. The share of deaths due to circulatory diseases declined slightly compared to 2022, but they remain the top cause.
4. People aged above 70 years recorded the highest deaths from circulatory system diseases.
5. Among the 55–64 age group, circulatory diseases were the second leading cause of death.
6. The data is based on medically certified deaths, not total registered deaths, highlighting reporting gaps.
7. States and UTs vary significantly in coverage under the MCCD system.

Static Info(Prelims Notes)

1. Medical Certification of Cause of Death (MCCD):
   • Implemented under the Registration of Births and Deaths Act, 1969.
2. • Ensures scientific classification of causes of death using ICD (International Classification of Diseases).
3. Circulatory System Diseases:
   • Include ischemic heart disease, heart failure, hypertension-related conditions, and stroke.
4. Public Health Significance:
   • Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are now the dominant cause of mortality in India.
5. • Reflects epidemiological transition from communicable to lifestyle-related diseases.
6. Policy Linkages:
   • National Programme for Prevention and Control of Cancer, Diabetes, Cardiovascular Diseases and Stroke (NPCDCS).
7. Limitation of Data:
   • MCCD coverage remains incomplete, especially in rural and less-developed regions.

Prelims MCQ

Q1. With reference to the Medical Certification of Cause of Death (MCCD) in India, consider the following statements:

1. It is mandated under the Registration of Births and Deaths Act, 1969.

2. It covers all registered deaths in India without exception.

3. It uses the International Classification of Diseases (ICD) for cause-of-death coding.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

a) 2 and 3 only

b) 1 and 3 only

c) 1 and 2 only

d) 1, 2 and 3

Answer: B) 1 and 3 only