Bhopal (Madhya Pradesh): Following Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent appeal to address the growing obesity epidemic, Madhya Pradesh is witnessing a concerning trend. According to the ongoing Nirogi Kaya Abhiyan screening, approximately 25% of the youth in the 30+ age group are classified as “obsessed.”
The initial findings have shocked both the public and the health sector in the state. In his monthly Mann Ki Baat, PM Modi had urged nation to focus on the obesity crisis, highlighting its growing prevalence across India.
Obesity has become a major health concern, and it is crucial to understand the factors contributing to it and explore ways to stay healthy and prevent or combat the issue.
The Nirogi Kaya Abhiyan, which began on February 20, aims to randomly screen individuals over the age of 30. The initiative has already screened around 20 lakh people, with 1 lakh youth being assessed daily.
Doctors from the National Health Mission (NHM) are taking waist measurements to calculate the Body Mass Index (BMI), a key indicator of body fat based on height and weight. BMI helps determine if a person is underweight, healthy, overweight, or obese.
Obesity can lead to a host of health problems, including cardiovascular diseases, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and atherosclerosis, which can result in heart disease and strokes.
Other risks include Type 2 diabetes, pregnancy complications, fertility issues, joint problems, breathing difficulties, and mental health issues such as depression and anxiety.
Dr. Ashish Saxena, Deputy Director at NHM, said, “The initial screening trends show that 20-25% of youth in the 30+ age group are already showing signs of obesity.
Increased waist circumference, which is used to calculate BMI, is prevalent. Obesity is becoming a significant health issue, not just in urban areas, but also in rural parts of the state. The rise in fast food consumption is a major contributing factor.”
