Lancet Study: Rise in Obesity Rates

Why is it in the news?

Obesity rates are on the rise globally, as reported by a recent analysis published in The Lancet journal.

Obesity

· Obesity, defined by the WHO, signifies an abnormal accumulation of fat with associated health risks.

· A body mass index (BMI) exceeding 25 indicates overweight, while a BMI over 30 is categorized as obese.

· BMI is calculated as an individual’s weight in kilograms divided by their height in meters squared.

More about the news

Over 1 billion individuals, encompassing children, adolescents, and adults, are affected by obesity globally.
In 2022, 159 million children and adolescents, along with 879 million adults, were classified as obese.

Indian Obesity Statistics:

In India, the obesity rate among girls escalated from 0.1% in 1990 to 3.1% in 2022, while for boys, it rose from 0.1% to 3.9% during the same period.
India’s global ranking in obesity prevalence stood at 174th for both girls and boys in 2022.
Data from the National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5), conducted from 2019 to 2021, indicates that approximately 6.4% of women and 4.0% of men aged 15-49 in India are obese.

Causes of Obesity

Poor Diet: Consumption of high-calorie, low-nutrient foods contribute to weight gain, particularly diets rich in refined carbohydrates and fats.
Lack of Physical Activity: Sedentary lifestyles play a significant role in obesity, characterized by minimal physical activity.
Medications: Certain medications, including antidepressants and corticosteroids, may induce weight gain as a side effect.
Sleep: Disrupted sleep patterns or sleep disorders can disrupt hormonal balance, leading to increased appetite and weight gain.
Genetics: Genetic predisposition influences individual susceptibility to obesity, contributing to varying degrees of weight gain among individuals.

Addressing Obesity

Multi-faceted Approach: Combating adolescent obesity requires a comprehensive strategy involving government policies, community initiatives, and individual efforts.
Policy Interventions: Regulations on the sale of unhealthy foods and beverages to children, restrictions on junk food advertisements targeting children, and clear nutritional labelling are crucial.
Promoting Healthy Habits: Encouraging physical activity through daily household chores and outdoor activities is essential in combating obesity among adolescents.

AMIGOS IAS