A recent global analysis, published by The Lancet, showed that 12.5 million children (7.3 million boys and 5.2 million girls), aged between five and 19 in India were grossly overweight in 2022, a sharp rise from 0.4 million in 1990.

“This is a threefold increase in just three decades, and it paints a worrying picture for the future health of our nation. As a doctor, I am deeply concerned by the rising tide of obesity in India, particularly the alarming increase among children,” Dr Shridhar Deshmukh, Ruby Hall Clinic Hinjewadi, said.

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Dr Manish Mittal, consultant physician, Bhailal Amin General Hospital, Vadodara attributed the increasing prevalence of obesity to lifestyle factors, posing risks like heart disease, strokes, and diabetes.

“Fatty liver, obstructive sleep apnea, and arthritis are common in obese individuals, leading to a significant medical burden,” he said.

The experts called for early awareness and education, particularly among the children to combat obesity. Unhealthy eating patterns, sedentary lifestyles, and early obesity are significant contributors.

"India's health crisis, marked by rising incidence of diabetes and cardiovascular diseases, majorly originates from childhood habits influencing adult health. To tackle this issue, we must advocate for traditional, nutrient-rich foods, promote physical activity, raise awareness about lifelong habit impacts, and enact policies fostering healthy environments. By instilling healthy behaviours early on, India can address the escalating burden of chronic diseases and enhance the overall well-being of its populace," Dr Aasim Maldar, consultant - endocrinologist and diabetologist at P. D Hinduja Hospital and Medical Research Centre, said.

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