Understanding Obesity

Expert Explanation by Dr. Vikas Kaushik – Diabetes, Obesity & Metabolic Disease Specialist

Obesity is a chronic medical condition where excess fat accumulates in the body and begins to negatively impact overall health. It is not merely a cosmetic concern—it is a complex metabolic disease influenced by genetic factors, hormonal imbalances, dietary habits, physical inactivity, stress, and modern lifestyle patterns.

Today, obesity is recognized globally as a major health epidemic. Changing food habits, increased consumption of calorie-dense and refined foods, reduced physical activity due to mechanization, and sedentary working styles have all contributed to its rapid rise.

A Global & Indian Epidemic

Obesity is increasing in both developed and developing nations.
According to global health authorities including the World Health Organization (WHO) and the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute (NHLBI), USA, obesity is now officially classified as a worldwide epidemic.

The rise is not limited to any one group — overweight and obesity are increasing in:

  • Men and women

  • Children and adolescents

  • All ethnicities

  • Urban and semi-urban populations

  • All educational and economic backgrounds

Obesity in India

India is facing a rapid surge in obesity, especially in urban areas.
Research shows:

  • Nearly 1 out of 3 people living in Indian cities are overweight or obese

  • Obesity rates are rising significantly among children and adolescents

  • Studies indicate that almost half of urban men and one-third of urban women have a BMI over 25 (overweight/obese)

Central / Abdominal Obesity

A particularly harmful form of obesity is central obesity, also known as android obesity, where excess fat is stored around the abdomen.

It is identified by an increased waist-to-hip ratio:

  • > 0.85 for males

  • > 0.95 for females

Central obesity significantly increases the risk of:

  • Diabetes

  • Heart disease

  • Stroke

  • Fatty liver disease

  • High blood pressure

  • Metabolic syndrome

Why Obesity Needs Medical Attention

Obesity is not just weight gain — it is associated with serious long-term health risks including:

  • Type 2 Diabetes

  • High Blood Pressure

  • High Cholesterol

  • Heart Disease (IHD, angina, heart attack)

  • Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD)

  • Sleep Apnea

  • Osteoarthritis

  • Hormonal imbalance

  • Certain cancers

Early evaluation and scientific weight management can prevent or reverse many of these risks.