Aditi Sharma
Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar
With cases on the rise, experts highlight the urgent need for awareness, timely diagnosis and holistic care in autoimmune disorders.
On World Health Day 2026, observed with the theme 'Together with Health. Stand with Science,' rising cases of autoimmune diseases in India demand attention. Autoimmune conditions are diseases in which the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks its own healthy cells and tissues instead of protecting them. Conditions such as Rheumatoid Arthritis, Psoriasis, Type 1 Diabetes, Celiac Disease, etc. are increasingly reported, with nearly 70% patients being women. Experts link this surge to urbanisation, pollution, stress, and processed diets. As these conditions remain incurable and often undetected, medical and fitness professionals emphasise early diagnosis and sustained lifestyle management to help patients lead healthier lives.
Supervised exercise is key to manage autoimmune conditions
"Some autoimmune patients can safely follow moderate, well-structured exercise routines to maintain overall health. Gym training, when supervised, helps improve strength, flexibility, and energy levels. It is especially beneficial for joint-related autoimmune conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and ankylosing spondylitis, where controlled workouts can reduce stiffness, support mobility, and contribute to better bone health without triggering excessive strain."
- Jasveer Singh Bhatia, Proprietor & Head Coach, Sun Health Club
Timely diagnosis crucial for autoimmune care
"Autoimmune conditions are often difficult to detect at early stages, as primary and secondary healthcare facilities may lack advanced diagnostic capabilities. Persistent or recurring symptoms, especially those unresponsive to antibiotics, should not be ignored and require timely evaluation at higher centres. Under the Pradhan Mantri Jan Aarogya Yojana (PMJAY), eligible patients can access free diagnosis and treatment, ensuring improved healthcare support."
– Dr. Abhay Dhanorkar, District Health Officer
Yoga is a gentle path to strength for autoimmune care
"Yoga can be a gentle yet powerful tool for individuals with autoimmune conditions. While intense exercise may worsen symptoms, yoga supports flexibility, reduces inflammation, and calms the nervous system. Through mindful movement and breathing, patients often experience improved energy, reduced stress, and better pain management. Over time, it can enhance overall well-being and help them maintain a more balanced, functional daily life. Basic yogasana like Balasana and Tadasana can be practiced easily."
– Ankita Prasad, IAFT certified Yoga Instructor
Don’t miss early autoimmune signs
“Earlier, autoimmune neurological conditions were often mistaken for age-related degeneration. Today, rapid memory loss, slow thinking, seizures, and mild cognitive issues require urgent evaluation, as they are not limited to ageing. Increasingly seen in young adults, symptoms like leg pain, burning sensations and insomnia are misdiagnosed as stress. Early detection through these symptoms and self-identification is crucial. Antibodies like NMDA and VGKC are key causes, making timely diagnosis essential.”
– Dr. Anand Soni, Neurologist