Cardiovascular disease is among the leading causes of mortality and morbidity globally. Over three-quarters of CVD-related deaths now occur in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs); India accounts for one-fifth of global CVD-related deaths, especially among the younger population. The objective of this study was to evaluate the prevalence of CVD among the Indian adult population. We systematically searched Scopus and PubMed from January 2000 to December 2024 to identify relevant articles and pooled the prevalence of CVD using random-effects meta-analysis. Among the 14,647 records screened, 501 full-text articles were assessed for eligibility and 15 studies were included in the final analysis. The pooled prevalence of CVD was 11% (95% CI: 0.09–0.17). Subgroup analysis showed prevalence rates of 12% among males and 14% among females. Urban areas had a higher prevalence (12%) compared to rural areas (6%), with a significant difference. Our study shows the significant prevalence of cardiovascular disease (CVD) in India, particularly in urban areas, with slightly higher rates among females. Focused public health strategies are required to mitigate the growing burden of CVD, along with preventive measures, to reduce further increases in disease prevalence and related fatalities.

Introduction. Long COVID, a condition that follows the acute phase of COVID-19, presents diverse clinical, psychological, and socioeconomic challenges, with complications such as fatigue, cognitive impairment, musculoskeletal issues, and mental health conditions. Despite its impact, the burden of long COVID symptoms on public health remains underexplored. This systematic review synthesizes current evidence on the complications and challenges of long COVID to inform healthcare providers and policymakers. Material and methods. A systematic literature search was conducted using PubMed and Scopus databases for studies published between January 2020 and August 2024. Articles were selected based on inclusion criteria, including both qualitative and quantitative studies. The review adhered to PRISMA guidelines, and the risk of bias was assessed using the NIHR risk-of-bias tool. Results. A total of 23 studies from 17 countries were included. Findings presented a multifaceted burden, with physical symptoms such as fatigue (5.5%–84.4%), brain fog (67%), headaches (5%–76.6%) and sleep disturbances (22%–60.9%). Psychological impacts were also prominent, with anxiety and depression frequently reported. Socioeconomic consequences were substantial, with up to 42.3% of individuals unable to return to work. Conclusions. Long COVID poses significant challenges to individuals and public health systems. Despite emerging insights, there are substantial gaps in understanding and managing long COVID, underscoring the need for further research and comprehensive healthcare strategies.

Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) remain a major contributor to global morbidity and mortality, with India bearing a substantial share of this burden. The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted routine clinical care and accelerated the transition to telemedicine for chronic disease management. This study explores healthcare providers’ perspectives on the use of telemedicine for NCD care during and after the pandemic, including its perceived benefits, limitations, and future relevance within the broader digital health landscape. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 33 purposively selected healthcare providers with experience in telemedicine for NCD care between February and June 2025, audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and thematically analyzed using NVivo 15. Providers reported that telemedicine supported continuity of care, reduced the need for in-person visits, facilitated medication adherence, and offered reassurance for patients during periods of restricted mobility. However, limitations were identified, including the inability to conduct physical examinations, connectivity challenges, and low digital literacy, particularly among older adults. While overall satisfaction with telemedicine was positive, participants emphasized the need for strengthened digital infrastructure, greater patient awareness, and simplified platforms to improve usability. The findings underscore telemedicine’s continued relevance for NCD management beyond the pandemic, contingent on improved accessibility and system integration.