India may have 45 crore obese & overweight people by 2050: Lancet
The alarming rise in obesity and overweight cases is a pressing concern globally, and India is no exception. According to a recent study published in The Lancet, India may have a staggering 45 crore (450 million) obese and overweight people aged over 25 years by the year 2050. This prediction is based on an analysis of data from 200 countries, and the findings are nothing short of alarming.
The study, which was conducted by researchers from the Imperial College London and the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, also revealed that China and the United States will see the largest numbers of obese and overweight people by 2050. China is expected to have 62.7 crore (627 million) such individuals, while the USA is projected to have 21.4 crore (214 million).
What’s even more concerning is that the sub-Saharan Africa super-region is expected to see the highest rise (254.8%) in the number of obese and overweight people by 2050. This region, which includes countries such as Nigeria, Ethiopia, and South Africa, is already grappling with numerous health challenges, and the rise in obesity and overweight cases will only add to the burden.
The study’s findings are based on an analysis of data from 200 countries, including data from the World Health Organization (WHO), the World Bank, and other sources. The researchers used a complex model to predict the future trends in obesity and overweight cases, taking into account factors such as changes in diet, physical activity levels, and population growth.
The rise in obesity and overweight cases is a major public health concern, as it increases the risk of chronic diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, and certain types of cancer. In addition, the economic burden of obesity and overweight cases is significant, with estimates suggesting that it costs the global economy around $2 trillion annually.
So, what are the reasons behind this alarming trend? Experts point to a combination of factors, including:
- Changing lifestyles: As people adopt Westernized lifestyles, they are consuming more processed and high-calorie foods, and leading more sedentary lives.
- Urbanization: As people move to cities, they are exposed to a greater variety of food options and are more likely to engage in sedentary activities.
- Economic growth: As economies grow, people have more disposable income, which they are using to buy more food and engage in leisure activities.
- Lack of physical activity: Many people are not engaging in regular physical activity, which is essential for maintaining a healthy weight.
The study’s findings are a wake-up call for governments, policymakers, and individuals around the world. It is essential that we take immediate action to address this crisis, by implementing policies and programs that promote healthy eating and physical activity.
In India, where the rise in obesity and overweight cases is particularly alarming, there is a need for a multi-pronged approach to tackle this issue. This can include:
- Increasing awareness: There is a need to create awareness about the risks associated with obesity and overweight cases, and the importance of healthy eating and physical activity.
- Improving education: Schools can play a key role in promoting healthy eating and physical activity habits among children and young adults.
- Increasing access to healthcare: There is a need to increase access to healthcare services, particularly in rural areas, to enable people to receive medical attention and treatment for obesity and overweight-related conditions.
- Implementing policies: Governments can implement policies that promote healthy eating and physical activity, such as taxes on sugary drinks and snacks, and investments in public transportation and pedestrian-friendly infrastructure.
The Lancet study is a stark reminder of the need for immediate action to address the growing crisis of obesity and overweight cases. By working together, we can reduce the number of people affected by this condition and promote a healthier, more sustainable future for all.
