The rise in the percentage of people suffering from obesity has been a concern for India over the past few years. Now, it has reached an alarming level.
According to the recently conducted Economic Survey, 54% of the diseases in India are due to unhealthy diets. The survey stated that preventive measures should be taken immediately to control the rising obesity in the country.
This survey was mentioned by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman in the Parliament today.
The report stated that there is a need to discourage the consumption of heavy sugar and highly processed foods. Awareness should be brought among people to adopt healthier lifestyles by eating good food and excersing regularly.
The economic survey stated that obesity among elderly people is an alarming concern. “Estimates show that the adult obesity rate in India has more than tripled, and the rise in children is the steepest in the world for India, behind Vietnam and Namibia,” the survey stated.
According to the survey’s report, obesity is higher in urban areas compared to rural areas. While obesity is at 19.3% in rural areas, it is 29.8% in urban areas.
The obesity rate increased from 18.9% to 22.9% among men aged 18-65 years. It increased from 20.6% to 24% among women.
The survey opined that the obesity rate is concerning in a few states. In the national capital Delhi, 41.3% of women are suffering from obesity and 38% of men are suffering from obesity.
In Tamil Nadu, 40.4% of women and 37% of men are suffering from obesity. Andhra Pradesh is in the third position with 36.3% of women and 31.1% of men suffering from obesity.
There is a need for the government to bring awareness among people regarding the effects of obesity and encourage them to adopt healthy lifestyles by changing their eating habits and regularly exercising.
