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Bhopal (Madhya Pradesh): Following Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent appeal to address the growing obesity epidemic, Madhya Pradesh is witnessing a concerning trend. According to the ongoing Nirogi Kaya Abhiyan screening, approximately 25% of the youth in the 30+ age group are classified as obese.
The initial findings have raised alarm among both the public and health sector experts in the state. In his monthly Mann Ki Baat, PM Modi had urged the nation to focus on the obesity crisis, highlighting its increasing prevalence across India.
Obesity has become a major health concern, making it crucial to understand the contributing factors and explore preventive and management strategies.
Screening Initiative and Findings
The Nirogi Kaya Abhiyan, which commenced on February 20, aims to randomly screen individuals over the age of 30. The initiative has already screened around 20 lakh people, with 1 lakh youth being assessed daily. Doctors from the National Health Mission (NHM) are conducting waist measurements to calculate the Body Mass Index (BMI), a key indicator of body fat based on height and weight. BMI categorizes individuals as underweight, healthy, overweight, or obese.
Health Risks of Obesity
Obesity is a leading cause of various health complications, including:
- Cardiovascular diseases, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol, which can lead to heart disease and strokes.
- Type 2 diabetes, which increases the risk of other metabolic disorders.
- Pregnancy complications and fertility issues.
- Joint problems and breathing difficulties.
- Mental health concerns such as depression and anxiety.
Expert Opinions
Dr. Ashish Saxena, Deputy Director at NHM, stated, “The initial screening trends indicate that 20-25% of youth in the 30+ age group are already showing signs of obesity. Increased waist circumference, which is used to calculate BMI, is becoming prevalent. Obesity is a growing health issue not just in urban areas but also in rural regions of the state. The rise in fast food consumption is a major contributing factor.”
Call for Lifestyle Changes
Health experts suggest that combating obesity requires a multi-faceted approach, including:
- Promoting physical activity through regular exercise and an active lifestyle.
- Encouraging a balanced diet with reduced processed food and sugar intake.
- Increasing awareness about portion control and mindful eating habits.
- Strengthening public health initiatives to monitor and prevent obesity-related diseases.
Disclaimer:
The information provided in this article is based on the preliminary findings of the Nirogi Kaya Abhiyan and statements from health officials. Further in-depth studies and research may be required to validate these statistics. Readers are advised to consult healthcare professionals for personalized medical guidance.
