India is facing a growing OBESITY crisis, particularly among its younger population. As per data available, a staggering 12.5 million children aged between 5 and 19 in India were found to be severely overweight, with 7.3 million boys and 5.2 million girls now struggling with excess weight. The World Health Organisation (WHO) defines overweight as a Body Mass Index (BMI) over 25 and obesity as a BMI over 30. In India, the number of obese adults has also increased considerably in the last three decades, with 44 million women and 26 million men over the age of 20 being obese.
With these troubling stats, the need for targeted public health policies and practical interventions has never been more critical in combating the obesity epidemic in India, and obesity has become a HEALTH CRISIS in the country.
Obesity-The Silent Health Crisis
This issue has been largely overlooked despite its profound implications. The focus often remains on basic solutions like diet and exercise, which are vital but may not be enough for those with severe obesity. This is where medical interventions, particularly bariatric surgery, play a crucial role. Bariatric surgery has proven to an effective option for individuals struggling with extreme obesity, helping them achieve sustainable weight loss and improve health outcomes.
Obesity is a chronic disease that requires a deeper understanding. Its effects go beyond weight gain, significantly affecting physical and mental well-being. Here are some health issues tied to obesity:
1 Type 2 Diabetes– Excess body fat leads to insulin resistance which causes Type 2 diabetes. Increased blood sugar levels lead to organ damage and an increased risk of heart disease.
2 Heart Diseases– Obesity increases the workload on the heart and can lead to Cholesterol imbalance. This leads to higher risk of heart attacks, strokes, and clogged arteries.
3 Hypertension– Obesity causes high blood pressure due to excess weight on the body. This can lead to strain on the heart, risk of kidney disease, and vision problems.
Other disease which can be linked to obesity are- Fatty liver disease breathing problems, gout, diseases of gall bladder and pancreas, kidney disease, fertility problems, some type of cancers, pregnancy problems sexual function problems, and mental health problems.
To effective address the obesity epidemic in India, it’s crucial to embrace a wide range of solutions, including medical interventions like bariatric surgery.
Key Factors Contributing to Obesity
- Dietary Shifts: The increasing reliance on processed foods, fast food, and sugary beverages packed with excess calories and low nutritional value is major contributor to obesity.
- Sedentary Lifestyle: With more time spent sitting on a desks and increases screen time, physical activity has drastically reduced, leading to weight gain.
- Urbanisation: rapid urban development has brought about easier access to fast food and ready-to-eat meals, and a lack of time to cook nutritious, home-cooked meals.
- Lack of Physical Activity: Many urban and rural areas are experiencing a drop in outdoor activities and sports opportunities, contributing to the rise in sedentary behavior.
- Genetics: Genetic factors contribute, with some individuals predisposed to storing more fat, though lifestyle choices magnifying these genetic risks.
In India, many obese people are going in for Bariatric surgery, as it offers a transformative solution for those struggling with obesity. It helps in significant weight loss, improves overall health, boosts confidence, and provides a foundation for long-term success. Bariatric surgery offers sustainable weight loss by directly addressing the root cause of obesity.
- Reduce stomach size, leading to a decrease in food intake.
- Helps individual feel fuller faster, reducing cravings and overeating.
- Studies show patients can lose up to 60-80% of excess weight within first year.
Obesity can diminish the overall quality of life. You may not be able to do physical activities that you used to enjoy. You may avoid public places. People with obesity may even encounter discrimination.
In the end obesity is not just a physical condition, it affects every aspect of a person’s life, from health to emotional well-being. While the causes are multifaceted, the solution lies in making lifestyle changes, adopting a balance diet, staying active, and seeking professional support. With the proper guidance and determination, overcoming obesity is not just a dream-it’s an achievable reality.
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Anil Malik
Mumbai, India
8th October 2025