World Obesity Day 2025: Condition is more than just a weight issue¡ªdoctors share hidden dangers you need to know

Obesity is a rising health concern in India, affecting both adults and children. In India, the rate of obesity has risen from 1.2 per cent in 1990 to 9.8 per cent in 2022 among women and from 0.5 per cent to 5.4 per cent in men.

According to a Lancet study, the rise of obesity is alarming in India, with 70 per cent of the urban population overweight. Not only this, but India stands at the third position across the world, following the United States and China, when it comes to obesity.

Obesity is just not about carrying extra pounds; it is a complex metabolic condition that may impact every organ of the body. ¡°As per research published in The Lancet (2020), obesity significantly increases the risk of type 2 diabetes, heart disease, certain cancers, sleep apnoea, joint problems, and osteoarthritis. The relationship between obesity and mental health is bidirectional,¡± says Dr. Shrihari Anikhindi, Associate Consultant, Institute of Liver Gastroenterology & Pancreatico Biliary Sciences, Sir Gangaram Hospital.

Obesity can lead to mental health issues

A research study conducted by the American Psychological Association shows that people with obesity have a 55 per cent higher chance of developing depression. Similarly, on the other hand, it's vice versa; depression can lead to weight gain due to emotional eating, lower physical activity, poor sleep quality, and more.

Treatment approaches must address both physical and psychological aspects for optimal outcomes. While lifestyle modifications remain fundamental, medical science has evolved to offer innovative solutions for obesity management. One breakthrough treatment is endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty (ESG), a minimally invasive procedure that's now available in India.

Tips to deal with obesity and weight management

Apart from the treatments, it is important to practice portion control and opt for roasted, grilled, or steamed food alternatives such as corn on the cob (bhutta), idlis, or fresh fruit chaat instead of fried snacks. Dr. Manjusha Agarwal, Senior Consultant Internal Medicine, Gleneagles Hospital Parel Mumbai, advises, ¡°It is better to avoid stress eating instead of eating whole food. You can also recreate street foods at home with the use of healthier oil and ingredients to maintain the taste.¡±

¡°Avoid unhealthy food components, including maida, artificial sweeteners, added colours, or corn flour, and be mindful and pay attention to your eating habits,¡± adds Dr. Agarwal.

According to the American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (ASGE), ESG offers several advantages:

• No external incisions
• Shorter recovery time (usually 1-2 days)
• 15-20 per cent total body weight loss within 12-24 months
• Reduced risk compared to traditional bariatric surgery
• Reversible nature of the procedure

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