Every year on March 4th, World Obesity Day raises awareness about the health risks associated with obesity. Obesity affects around 190 crore individuals worldwide.
India ranks third globally in terms of obesity prevalence, with 13.5 crore individuals affected. Globally, childhood obesity is projected to increase by 100% from 2020 to 2035. In India, 1.25 crore children suffer from obesity.
The theme of World Obesity Day 2025 is "Changing Systems, Healthier Lives". This subject emphasizes the need to adapt systems and settings to address obesity.
Addressing Misconceptions
Misconceptions about obesity and its impact on health pose a challenge in addressing the worldwide obesity epidemic. We may address myths about obesity, recognize its intricacies, and take meaningful collective action.
What is Obesity?
Obesity is characterized as abnormal fat buildup that poses a health concern, and is typically assessed by BMI.
Obesity increases the risk of:
- Diabetes
- High blood pressure
- Heart disease
- Stroke
- Osteoarthritis
- Infertility
- Various types of cancer, including breast, colon, and liver cancer
Causes of Obesity
Obesity is a disorder caused by a variety of factors, including:
- Processed food consumption
- Sedentary lifestyle
- Genetics
- Mental health issues such as depression and sleep disturbance
Unfortunately, many people view obesity as a personal failure rather than an illness.
The Role of Genetics in Obesity
Genetics account for 40% to 70% of obesity. The majority of the world's population is genetically predisposed to retain fat to prevent famine.
Although this is a useful survival strategy during times of hunger, it is ineffective in today's obesity-prone environments.
Modern Lifestyle and Obesity
In today's world, calorie-dense junk foods are readily available while healthy snacks are expensive.
The COVID-19 epidemic and remote employment have restricted opportunities for physical activity, leading to increased weight gain.
Obesity is not a personal failure, but rather an illness caused by our current obesogenic environment.
Effects of Obesity on the Body
Obesity has multiple effects on our bodies and thoughts, including:
- Hunger and satiety
- Metabolism
- Body fat distribution
- Stress eating
Obesity as a Chronic Condition
Obesity is a chronic condition that requires ongoing therapy.
While policymakers cannot change genetics, they can mitigate the impact of obesity-causing surroundings.
Creating a Healthier Environment
Creating healthy settings is crucial for addressing obesity. Access to good meals and physical activity are crucial not only for preventing obesity but also for enabling the billion people living with diabetes to achieve recovery.
To combat obesity, governments should prioritize:
- Improving access to nutritious food
- Limiting intake of energy-dense foods among vulnerable children
- Promoting physical activity as a normal part of daily life
What Can Be Done to Tackle Obesity?
- Restrict marketing of unhealthy foods and beverages to youngsters
- Tax sugary beverages
- Make nutritious foods more affordable
- Make room for safe walking and cycling
Tips to Protect Your Child From Obesity
Developing healthy behaviors from a young age can greatly improve a child’s overall health.
- Promote healthy eating habits from childhood, including fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Avoid calorie-dense junk foods such as cakes, biscuits, chocolates, and soft drinks.
- Encourage children to participate in physical activities, such as sports, dance, gym, and swimming.
- Limiting screen time, including TV and mobile devices, promotes a more active lifestyle.
- Proper sleep is crucial in reducing obesity. Inadequate sleep alters hormonal balance, leading to increased hunger and cravings.
- Monitor kid growth and development through regular health check-ups and early detection of hormonal problems such as thyroid and Cushing's syndrome.
A Holistic Approach to Addressing Obesity
Obesity is a global epidemic that cannot be stopped with a single intervention.
Obesity must be addressed holistically, encompassing food and health systems, education, and society at large.
