Obesity cases in India are increasing rapidly, according to a recent study published in The Lancet. The report highlights that children and adolescents are among the most affected groups, raising serious public health concerns.
The study notes that obesity in India has surged from 0.4 million cases in 1990 to 12.5 million in 2022. A significant proportion of these cases are among individuals aged 5 to 19 years. Of the total, 7.3 million are boys and 5.2 million are girls.
Globally, more than one billion children, adolescents, and adults are now living with obesity, while many others continue to suffer from malnutrition, creating a dual nutritional challenge for governments worldwide.
Among adults in India, obesity rates have also risen sharply—from 1.2% in 1990 to 9.8% in 2022. The study estimates that around 44 million women and 26 million men are currently affected.
Experts say the rise is driven by increased consumption of high-calorie foods, fast food, sweets, and soft drinks, along with reduced physical activity and growing screen time among children. Genetic factors, stress, and hormonal changes are also contributing to the problem.
Health experts recommend balanced diets, regular physical activity, and lifestyle changes to prevent obesity, especially among children and adolescents.
