What is Obesity?

Obesity is a complex medical condition characterised by excessive body fat accumulation that can harm your health. It's not just about appearance; it's a serious disease that can lead to numerous health complications. We often measure obesity using Body Mass Index (BMI), which is a calculation based on your height and weight.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) has established a universal BMI classification system for adults. These values are used globally, but it's important to note that they may not be as accurate for all populations, which is why some regions, like Asia, have adopted their guidelines.

Obesity in the Indian Context:

India is facing a significant rise in obesity rates, often referred to as an "obesity epidemic." This is a critical public health concern, with millions of adults and even children affected across the country, including major cities like Hyderabad. This trend is largely driven by rapid urbanization and changes in lifestyle.

Obesity is rarely due to a single factor. It's a complex interplay of various elements:

• Changing Lifestyles (Sedentary Habits): The rise of desk jobs, increased screen time, and less physical activity contribute significantly to a lack of calorie burning.
• Dietary Shifts:

  • Processed Foods & Fast Food: Easy access to and increased consumption of high-calorie, high-sugar, high-fat, and low-nutrient processed snacks, sugary drinks, and fast food.
  • Traditional Diet Changes: While traditional Indian diets can be healthy, modern interpretations often involve excessive use of refined oils, fried foods, and larger portion sizes.
  • Eating Out Culture: Increased frequency of eating out, where food is often richer and portions are larger.
• Genetics & Family History: Some individuals may have a genetic predisposition to gain weight more easily.
• Hormonal Imbalances: Conditions like Hypothyroidism or Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) can contribute to weight gain.
• Stress & Emotional Eating: High-stress lifestyles can lead to emotional eating and weight gain.
• Lack of Sleep: Poor sleep patterns can disrupt hormones that control hunger and fullness.
• Medications: Certain medications can cause weight gain as a side effect.

Obesity is not just a cosmetic concern; it's a gateway to numerous serious health problems that can severely impact your quality of life and even shorten it. In Hyderabad, as across India, we see a strong link between excess weight and conditions like:

• Type 2 Diabetes: One of the most common and devastating complications. Obesity significantly increases insulin resistance.
• Heart Disease & Stroke: Higher risk of high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and hardened arteries (atherosclerosis), leading to heart attacks and strokes.
• High Blood Pressure (Hypertension): Excess body fat puts a greater strain on your heart and blood vessels.
• Sleep Apnea: A condition where breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep, leading to fatigue and increased cardiovascular risk.
• Joint Problems (Osteoarthritis): The extra weight puts immense pressure on weight-bearing joints like knees, hips, and spine, leading to pain and degeneration.
• Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD/NASH): Excess fat accumulates in the liver, which can lead to inflammation and liver damage.
• Certain Cancers: Obesity is linked to an increased risk of various cancers, including those of the colon, breast, uterus, and kidney.
• Gallstones: Higher risk of developing gallstones.
• Kidney Disease: Obesity can directly or indirectly contribute to kidney damage.
• Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): Chronic acid reflux.
• Mental Health Issues: Depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, and social stigma are common among individuals struggling with obesity.
• Pregnancy Complications: Increased risks for both mother and baby during pregnancy (e.g., gestational diabetes, pre-eclampsia).