India may have 45 crore obese & overweight people by 2050: Lancet
The alarming rate of obesity and overweight population in India and other parts of the world has been a cause of concern for health experts for a long time. A recent study by The Lancet has shed light on a disturbing fact – India may have 45 crore obese and overweight people aged over 25 years by the year 2050. This staggering figure highlights the need for immediate action to address this pressing issue.
The study, which was published in The Lancet, also revealed that China, India, and the United States will see the largest numbers of obese and overweight people by 2050. The sub-Saharan Africa super-region, on the other hand, is expected to see the highest rise (254.8%) in such a population.
According to the study, the number of obese and overweight people in India is expected to increase from 31.6 crore in 2015 to 45 crore by 2050. This is a massive increase of 43.5% in just three decades. The study also found that the number of obese and overweight people in China will increase from 35.6 crore in 2015 to 62.7 crore by 2050, while in the United States, the number is expected to increase from 13.4 crore in 2015 to 21.4 crore by 2050.
India’s growing obesity problem is a result of a combination of factors, including rapid urbanization, changes in lifestyle, and unhealthy eating habits. The country’s fast food culture and increasing reliance on processed and packaged foods have contributed to the rise in obesity. Additionally, the lack of physical activity and sedentary lifestyle among many Indians have also played a significant role in the growth of the obesity problem.
The study’s findings are based on data from 195 countries and territories, and the researchers used a mathematical model to project the numbers of obese and overweight people up to 2050. The study also took into account various factors such as changes in diet, physical activity levels, and population growth rates.
The implications of this study are far-reaching and serious. Obesity and overweight are associated with a range of health problems, including diabetes, heart disease, and certain types of cancer. The economic burden of obesity is also significant, with estimates suggesting that it costs the global economy over $2 trillion annually.
So, what can be done to address this growing problem? The first step is to raise awareness about the dangers of obesity and the importance of healthy living. Governments, policymakers, and healthcare professionals must work together to promote healthy eating habits and physical activity. This can be achieved through initiatives such as public health campaigns, school programs, and community-based interventions.
Secondly, there is a need to address the root causes of obesity, including poverty, lack of access to healthy food, and limited opportunities for physical activity. Governments must invest in programs that promote healthy living, such as public transportation systems, parks and recreational facilities, and community gardens.
Finally, there is a need for healthcare professionals to take a more proactive approach to addressing obesity. This can be achieved by providing evidence-based treatments and counseling to patients who are overweight or obese. Healthcare providers must also work to reduce the stigma associated with obesity and promote a culture of empathy and understanding.
In conclusion, the study’s findings are a wake-up call for India and the rest of the world. The growing obesity problem is a serious threat to public health, and it requires immediate attention and action. By working together, we can reduce the number of obese and overweight people and promote a healthier and happier society.
