India may have 45 crore obese & overweight people by 2050: Lancet
Obesity and being overweight are two of the most pressing health concerns of our times. The consequences of these conditions can be severe, ranging from increased risk of chronic diseases like diabetes, heart disease, and certain types of cancer, to reduced quality of life and even premature death. In recent years, there has been a growing awareness of the need to tackle the global obesity epidemic, with many countries implementing policies and initiatives to promote healthy eating and regular physical activity.
However, despite these efforts, the situation continues to deteriorate. According to a recent study published in The Lancet, India may have as many as 45 crore obese and overweight people aged over 25 years by the year 2050. This alarming prediction is part of a broader trend, with China and the United States also expected to see significant increases in the number of people affected by obesity and overweight.
The study, which analyzed data from 195 countries, found that the number of obese and overweight individuals will rise by 24.2% globally between 2019 and 2050. This translates to an additional 1.4 billion people worldwide who will be affected by these conditions. The sub-Saharan Africa super-region is expected to see the highest rise (254.8%) in the number of obese and overweight people during this period.
So, what are the implications of this trend? For India, the consequences are likely to be severe. The country is already battling a range of health challenges, including high rates of diabetes, heart disease, and respiratory problems. The increase in the number of obese and overweight people will put additional pressure on the healthcare system, with the associated costs likely to be significant.
Moreover, the economic implications of the obesity epidemic cannot be ignored. Obesity is known to have a significant impact on productivity, with workers who are overweight or obese more likely to experience absenteeism and presenteeism (being present at work but not fully productive). This can have a negative impact on businesses and the broader economy.
So, what can be done to address the growing problem of obesity and overweight? Firstly, it is essential to recognize that this is a complex issue that requires a multifaceted approach. Governments, healthcare providers, and individuals all have a role to play in promoting healthy lifestyles and reducing the prevalence of obesity and overweight.
In India, the government has taken some steps to address the issue, including the launch of initiatives such as the National Population Policy and the Indian Council of Medical Research’s (ICMR) National Programme on Prevention and Control of Diabetes, Cardiovascular Diseases and Stroke. These efforts are welcome, but more needs to be done.
One potential approach is to implement policies that promote healthy eating and physical activity. This could include initiatives such as taxes on sugary drinks and junk food, as well as investments in infrastructure that supports active transportation, such as bike lanes and pedestrianized streets.
Another important step is to increase awareness about the risks associated with obesity and overweight. This includes educating people about the importance of maintaining a healthy weight, as well as providing support and resources to those who are struggling with weight-related issues.
Finally, it is essential to recognize that obesity and overweight are not solely individual issues, but are also shaped by broader social and environmental factors. This includes the availability and affordability of healthy food options, as well as the level of physical activity opportunities in a given area.
In conclusion, the study by The Lancet highlights the urgent need for action to address the growing problem of obesity and overweight. India, China, and the United States will be particularly affected, with the number of people affected by these conditions expected to rise significantly over the coming decades. To address this issue, it is essential to implement policies that promote healthy eating and physical activity, increase awareness about the risks associated with obesity and overweight, and recognize the broader social and environmental factors that contribute to these conditions.
