By Dr Satish K Gupta*
World Obesity Day returned on March 4, 2023, with the theme: ‘Changing Perspectives: Let’s Talk About Obesity’.
The prevalence of obesity in India has steadily been increasing over the past few decades, largely due to changes in lifestyle and diet. According to a study published in the British Medical Journal in 2019, its prevalence among adults in India has tripled over the past decade, from 3.7% in 2005 to 11.8% in 2015.
According to NFHS-5, the prevalence of obesity among adults (defined as a Body Mass Index or BMI of 30 or higher) in India was 6.9% for men and 9.3% for women. The highest prevalence of obesity was seen among women in urban areas (15.7%) and women with higher levels of education (13.3%). The prevalence of overweight (BMI of 25 or higher) was much higher, with 22.7% of men and 24.6% of women classified as overweight.
These estimates suggest that the prevalence of obesity in India has increased significantly since the previous NFHS survey conducted in 2015-16. However, it is important to note that these estimates are based on self-reported height and weight, which may underestimate the true prevalence of obesity.
So what is Obesity?
Obesity is a medical condition characterized by excess body fat accumulation that can negatively affect a person’s health. It is defined as having a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher. BMI is a measure of body fat based on height and weight.
Obesity can lead to several health problems, including heart disease, stroke, diabetes, high blood pressure, breathing problems, and some types of cancer. It can also affect a person’s mental health and quality of life.
There are various causes of obesity, including genetic factors, lifestyle choices, and environmental factors. Some of the common risk factors for obesity include a diet high in calories and low in nutrients, sedentary lifestyle, lack of sleep, certain medical conditions, medications, and stress.
Treatment for obesity typically involves a combination of lifestyle changes, such as healthy eating and regular exercise, and medical interventions, such as weight loss medications or bariatric surgery. It is important to address obesity as early as possible to prevent or reduce the risk of associated health problems.
Controlling the pandemic of obesity will require a multifaceted approach that addresses the underlying factors contributing to the epidemic. Some key strategies that can be implemented to control obesity include:
- Promoting healthy eating: Encouraging people to eat a healthy and balanced diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins, while limiting the consumption of processed and high-calorie foods and beverages.
- Encouraging physical activity: Promoting regular physical activity and reducing sedentary behaviours can help people burn calories and maintain a healthy weight.
- Creating healthy environments: Creating environments that promote healthy eating and physical activity, such as improving access to healthy foods and safe public spaces for exercise.
Targeted interventions: Implementing targeted interventions that address specific populations and risk factors such as providing nutrition education and healthy food options in schools or workplaces, and encouraging healthy behaviours among children and adolescents.
Policy changes: Implementing policies at the national, state, and local levels that support healthy behaviours, such as increasing taxes on sugary beverages, requiring restaurants to post calorie counts, and implementing urban planning policies that promote walkability and cycling.
Addressing health disparities: Addressing health disparities that contribute to obesity, such as poverty, lack of access to healthcare, and discrimination.
It is important to note that controlling the pandemic of obesity will require a sustained and coordinated effort across multiple sectors, including healthcare, education, government, and the food and beverage industry. By working together, we can help to reduce the burden of obesity and improve health outcomes for individuals and communities.
*Dr. Satish K Gupta is an MD in Medicines, a Visiting Senior Consultant Physician and Internist at Max Super Speciality Hospital, and a Clinical Assistant Professor at GS Medical College, Chaudhary Charan Singh University, Meerut. He is the author of Journey of COVID in India: A Doctor’s Perspective.
