Prevalence and determinants of men's health in India: A comprehensive analysis of a large survey data

Background Men's health is rarely dissected through a gender lens. This study addresses that gap by analysing biological parameters that reflect men's overall health. Zone-wise and state-level distributions of health indicators were assessed and compared. Methods Data were extracted from National Family Health Survey-5 (NFHS-5) (2019—21). The analysis focused on the state-level distribution of health indicators: random blood glucose (RBG), blood pressure (BP), waist circumference (WC), and waist-hip Ratio (WHR) and their determinants. Results Kerala, in the southern zone, had the highest raised blood sugar prevalence at 23.6%. Sikkim reported the highest prevalence of elevated BP nationally at 38.9%. In the northern zone, five states/union territories exceeded the national average for BP recordings. WHR was widespread across the northern zone, with Chandigarh leading at 66.9%, while only Rajasthan reported lower concerns. Sociodemographic analysis revealed that men over 35 years, married, urban residents, and those individuals in richer and richest wealth quintiles were significantly associated with elevated health indicators. This evidence highlights the urgent need for gender-focused health strategies targeting men's metabolic health across India. Conclusion This study reinforces the fact that prevalence of risk factors of non-communicable diseases among men is an area of concern, requiring urgent policy implementation focusing on non-communicable diseases among Indian men as it threatens workforce health and the economy. Achieving national health goals requires coordinated intersectoral action at zonal and state levels.