Obesity is a complex, chronic and progressive health condition characterized by excessive accumulation of body fat. 

As per the WHO, obesity is a major global health concern. Global obesity has nearly tripled since 1975, and over 1 billion people are affected. In India obesity cases are rapidly increasing and so is the risk to develop metabolic disorders due to this.

Medical professionals commonly use Body Mass Index (BMI) to classify obesity. A BMI of 25 or higher is considered obese for an Indian. This is a lower cut off value compared to Caucasians because Southeast Asians tend to have higher body fat percentage at lower BMI, accumulate more visceral (abdominal) fat and develop type 2 diabetes and heart disease earlier.

Why is Obesity Prevalence Increasing?

Rapid urbanization has reduced physical activity, while sedentary jobs and increased screen time lower daily energy expenditure. Easy access to ultra-processed, calorie-dense foods high in sugar and unhealthy fats promotes excess calorie intake. Poor sleep, chronic stress, and irregular eating patterns further disrupt appetite-regulating hormones like leptin and ghrelin. Genetic predisposition and early-life nutritional influences also contribute.

Steps to Prevent and Manage Obesity:

  • Early Risk Identification: Screen BMI, waist circumference, and metabolic markers annually.
  • Structured Medical Nutrition Therapy: 5–10% weight loss improves  insulin sensitivity and lowers HbA1c significantly. High-protein, high-fiber diets also reduce hunger and improve lipid profiles.Use of whole grains and avoiding processed junk food can have better health outcomes.
  • Regular Physical Activity: 150-300 minutes/week of moderate aerobic exercise + 2-3 days/week resistance training to reduce visceral fat and improve metabolic outcomes, lowering cardiometabolic risk by >30%.
  • Sleep and Stress Correction: Stress and sleep can affect eating habits in a big manner. Prospective studies link <6 hrs sleep with 30–45% higher obesity risk; sleep optimization improves leptin/ghrelin balance and appetite control. 
  • Medical and Surgical Therapy: Consulting a doctor to rule out any hormonal issues can help. Guidelines from the World Obesity Federation and Indian Obesity Society support anti-obesity medications like GLP1-RA and bariatric surgery showing long-term weight and metabolic benefit.

Conclusion:

Understanding obesity as a disease rather than a personal failure helps reduce stigma and encourages compassionate, effective treatment. Early identification, structured lifestyle intervention, pharmacotherapy when indicated, and metabolic surgery for eligible patients significantly reduce cardiometabolic risk and mortality. 

Disclaimer: This article is written by Practo for informational and educational purposes only. The content presented on this page should not be considered as a substitute for medical expertise. Please "DO NOT SELF-MEDICATE" and seek professional help regarding any health conditions or concerns. Practo will not be responsible for any act or omission arising from the interpretation of the content present on this page.