India may have 45 crore obese & overweight people by 2050: Lancet
The alarming rise of obesity and overweight population is a global concern, and India is no exception. According to a recent study published in The Lancet, India may witness a staggering 45 crore people aged over 25 years being obese or overweight by the year 2050. This staggering figure is a cause for concern, not just for India but for the entire world.
The study, which analyzed data from 195 countries, revealed that by 2050, China, India, and the United States will account for the largest numbers of obese and overweight people. China is expected to have 62.7 crore obese and overweight individuals, India 45 crore, and the United States 21.4 crore.
The study, which was conducted by researchers from the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, also highlighted that the sub-Saharan Africa super-region will experience the highest rise (254.8%) in the population of obese and overweight individuals. This is a worrying trend, given the already high prevalence of malnutrition and related health issues in this region.
The researchers used data from the Global Burden of Disease Study 2017 to estimate the number of obese and overweight individuals in each country. They found that the global population of obese and overweight individuals will increase by 15% between 2017 and 2050, with the largest increases seen in low- and middle-income countries.
So, what are the consequences of this alarming trend? Obesity and overweight are known to increase the risk of various chronic diseases, including heart disease, diabetes, and certain types of cancer. In India, where healthcare infrastructure is already struggling to cope with the demands of a rapidly growing population, the burden of obesity and overweight-related health issues is likely to put an unprecedented strain on the system.
It is also worth noting that the prevalence of obesity and overweight is not limited to adults. Childhood obesity is also a growing concern, with the study finding that the number of overweight and obese children under the age of five is likely to increase by 140% between 2017 and 2050.
So, what can be done to address this crisis? The study’s authors suggest that governments, policymakers, and individuals must work together to implement effective interventions to reduce the prevalence of obesity and overweight. This can include promoting healthy diets, increasing physical activity, and reducing consumption of sugary drinks and other unhealthy foods.
In India, where traditional diets are often high in carbohydrates and low in protein, the trend towards processed and packaged foods is a major concern. The proliferation of fast food chains and online food delivery services has made it easier than ever for people to indulge in unhealthy eating habits. Additionally, the growing popularity of sedentary activities such as watching TV and playing video games has contributed to a decline in physical activity levels.
To combat this trend, the Indian government must take a multi-pronged approach. This can include implementing policies to promote healthy eating, such as taxes on sugary drinks and unhealthy foods, and increasing funding for physical education programs in schools. Additionally, the government must invest in public health campaigns to raise awareness about the risks associated with obesity and overweight.
Individuals too have a critical role to play in addressing this crisis. By making conscious choices about their diet and lifestyle, people can reduce their risk of obesity and overweight. This can include incorporating physical activity into daily routines, eating a balanced diet that includes plenty of fruits and vegetables, and avoiding sugary drinks and unhealthy snacks.
In conclusion, the study’s findings are a wake-up call for India and the world. The alarming rise of obesity and overweight population is a global health crisis that requires immediate attention and action. By working together, governments, policymakers, and individuals can implement effective interventions to reduce the prevalence of obesity and overweight, and ensure a healthier future for all.
