# GLP-1 therapies target heart, kidney risks in diabetes

2026-08-06T15:55:55+00:00 | Health & Science | Indian Opinion Desk

Corroboration: 1 independent outlet

India's diabetes care is shifting beyond blood sugar control as GLP-1 receptor agonists show promise in protecting heart and kidney health. With over 100 million adults living with type 2 diabetes, a number that could cross 150 million by 2050, according to the International Diabetes Federation, experts say modern treatment must address obesity, cardiovascular risk, and kidney complications. The World Health Organization added GLP-1 therapies to its Essential Medicines List in 2025 for high-risk patients. However, Hindustan Times reports that a monthly cost of Rs 1,300-1,500 remains unaffordable for most Indian families. The newspaper's opinion piece, by former IAS officer Indu Bhushan, calls for a phased, four- or five-state pilot programme targeting patients with diabetes plus heart or kidney disease, with safeguards against inappropriate use and high dropout rates.

## Coverage

- timesnownews.com <https://www.timesnownews.com/health/diabetes-care-is-changing-why-experts-want-patients-to-look-beyond-sugar-levels-article-155319709>
- hindustantimes.com <https://www.hindustantimes.com/opinion/treating-indias-diabetes-epidemic-with-glp-1-drugs-blood-sugar-control-doctor-medical-101786120605843.html>

Tags: diabetes, GLP-1 medicines, India, kidney health, public health
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