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New Delhi, Tuesday – Experts from the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) have raised concerns over the growing obesity crisis in India, calling it the “mother of many non-communicable diseases” such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and cancer. Addressing the issue on Tuesday, they emphasized that obesity is fully preventable in adults and tackling it effectively could significantly reduce the nation’s health burden.
Dr. Naval Kishore Vikram, Professor of Medicine at AIIMS, underscored the seriousness of obesity, stating that its most critical effect is the development of insulin resistance and a pro-inflammatory state. “This insulin resistance can lead to the development of diabetes, hypertension, heart disease, and, over time, can also be linked to certain cancers,” he explained.
Obesity and Its Health Risks
Dr. Ambuj Roy, Professor of Cardiology at AIIMS, highlighted the impact of obesity on cardiovascular diseases, including heart attacks and strokes. Additionally, obesity has been associated with joint problems, liver complications, polycystic ovarian disease (PCOD), and infertility. He also pointed out that obesity can contribute to mental health issues.
“The cause of obesity lies in our lifestyle and eating habits,” said Dr. M. Gahlot, Senior Dietician at AIIMS. She noted that an increasing reliance on processed and sugary foods, combined with a lack of physical activity, is contributing to the obesity epidemic.
Prevention and Lifestyle Changes
The experts recommended simple but effective lifestyle modifications to combat obesity. “It is important to include fruits and vegetables in your daily diet and control the total amount of fat intake,” Dr. Gahlot advised. Dr. Vikram further emphasized the need for an active lifestyle. “People are not usually very active. A sedentary lifestyle is a major contributor to obesity,” he added, suggesting physical activities such as running, cycling, or jogging.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also acknowledged the growing obesity problem during his address at the 38th National Games in Dehradun. He stressed the importance of maintaining a healthy body, stating that a fit body leads to a healthy mind, ultimately contributing to a stronger nation.
Disclaimer
This article is intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice. Readers are encouraged to consult healthcare professionals for personalized recommendations regarding diet, exercise, and overall health management.
