India Could See Over 440 Million Overweight Individuals by 2050, Warns Report

A recent study forecasts that by 2050, India may have over 440 million overweight or obese individuals, significantly impacting public health. This figure includes a troubling increase among children and young adults. Experts advocate for improved diagnostic methods to address the growing obesity epidemic effectively.

A report published in The Lancet indicates that by 2050, India may see over 440 million individuals classified as overweight or obese, ranking second globally behind China. The projected figures include approximately 218 million men and 231 million women. This alarming trend suggests that the United States, Brazil, and Nigeria will follow, with significant challenges ahead for public health in these nations.

The Global Burden of Disease (GBD) Study 2021 revealed that nearly half of all adults globally, amounting to over two billion individuals aged 25 and older, were overweight or obese as of 2021. In India, the numbers are already significant, with about 180 million adults affected, including 81 million men and 98 million women. By mid-century, it is estimated that this number could swell to nearly 3.8 billion worldwide, highlighting a widespread public health crisis.

Furthermore, the analysis anticipates that around 16 million boys and 14 million girls aged 5-14 years in India could also join the growing ranks of the overweight and obese by 2050. Among young adults aged 15-24, India is projected to experience the highest burden, with over 22 million men and nearly 17 million women affected.

Emmanuela Gakidou, the lead author from the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation at the University of Washington, remarked that the surge in obesity represents a significant societal failure and a profound public health challenge. The study aims to inform governments and health professionals to prioritize interventions addressing the greatest obesity burdens.

In recent discussions, Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized the need for tackling obesity to foster a healthier nation. Experts have called for a reevaluation of how obesity is diagnosed, suggesting that measurements such as waist circumference may provide a more accurate assessment than the traditional Body Mass Index (BMI), which they argue can lead to misdiagnosis.

The findings of this report highlight a critical public health crisis that India faces with rising obesity statistics. Proactive measures are essential to address the impending health burdens, particularly among vulnerable populations. Collaborative efforts between the government and health sectors will be crucial in implementing effective prevention and intervention strategies to combat obesity.

Original Source: www.ndtv.com