The prevalence of illness is increasing rapidly in metropolises such as Mumbai and Delhi. This increase can be attributed primarily to overpopulation, poor sanitation and excessive pollution. Water- and food-borne diseases are endemic, and these diarrheal diseases have been the major killers, especially of children. Also, respiratory diseases (such as asthma and bronchitis) are beginning to pose an equally serious threat to life because of increasing levels of air pollution.
