India May Face Over 440 Million Obese or Overweight Individuals by 2050

The Lancet study predicts that by 2050, over 440 million individuals in India could be overweight or obese, making it a serious public health concern. Enhanced measures are required as the numbers indicate a significant portion of youth may also be affected by this epidemic. The study emphasizes the need for accurate obesity diagnostics to address the issue effectively.

A recent study published in The Lancet journal estimates that by 2050, India may witness over 440 million people classified as overweight or obese. This figure could comprise 218 million men and 231 million women, placing India second globally after China in terms of obesity rates among adults. Other nations, including the United States, Brazil, and Nigeria, are projected to follow in the rankings.

As per the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) Study 2021, nearly half of the world’s adults were considered overweight or obese as of 2021. This statistic includes approximately 180 million individuals in India alone, with 81 million men and 98 million women falling into these categories. It is projected that by 2050, the global number may surge to nearly 3.8 billion, including 1.8 billion men and 1.9 billion women.

The study also forecasts a significant increase in childhood obesity in India, estimating that about 16 million boys and 14 million girls between the ages of 5-14 may be affected by obesity by 2050. In the 15-24 age group, India is expected to have the highest prevalence of obesity, with over 22 million men and nearly 17 million women impacted.

Lead author Emmanuela Gakidou from the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation stated that the ongoing global epidemic of obesity represents both a tragedy and a societal failure. The findings of this comprehensive study could assist governments and public health organizations in identifying population segments requiring urgent intervention and prevention strategies.

In light of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s emphasis on addressing obesity, it is evident that combating this health issue is crucial for the nation’s overall fitness and well-being. The condition, characterized by a body mass index (BMI) exceeding 30, poses numerous health risks, including metabolic and cardiovascular diseases.

Experts have called for a reevaluation of obesity diagnosis methods, suggesting a shift from sole reliance on BMI to consider factors such as waist circumference and waist-to-hip ratio. This revised approach may offer a more accurate representation of health risks, enabling the identification of clinical versus pre-clinical obesity.

In summary, the research underscores the alarming projection of escalating obesity rates in India, emphasizing the necessity for immediate public health interventions. The study highlights India’s position in the global obesity landscape and suggests that both childhood and young adult populations will face significant health challenges. As obesity is linked to various serious health conditions, proactive measures are essential for promoting healthier living standards and combating this epidemic.

Original Source: www.business-standard.com