Neelofar Shakeel
Obesity is no longer merely a concern related to physical appearance or body weight; it has emerged as a serious public health challenge affecting millions of people across the world. Once largely associated with affluent societies, it is now increasingly prevalent in developing countries, including India, where changing lifestyles, unhealthy dietary habits and declining physical activity are contributing to its rapid spread. The growing burden raises an important question: Is obesity a real health challenge? The answer is undoubtedly yes.
Obesity is generally characterised by excessive accumulation of body fat that may adversely affect an individual’s health. Although Body Mass Index (BMI) is commonly used as a screening tool to assess weight categories, the implications of obesity extend far beyond a numerical measurement. It is associated with several chronic health conditions, including type 2 diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular diseases, certain cancers and joint disorders. Its consequences are not restricted to physical health; obesity can also affect mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, low self-esteem and social isolation.
One of the major factors contributing to the growing prevalence of obesity is the transformation in modern lifestyles. Long working hours, sedentary occupations, excessive screen time and reduced outdoor activities have significantly altered everyday routines. Traditional habits involving walking, physical labour and outdoor recreation are gradually giving way to convenience-driven lifestyles. Simultaneously, the increasing consumption of fast food, processed products, sugary beverages and calorie-rich diets has made unhealthy eating more common.
India is witnessing this transition at an alarming pace. Rapid urbanisation, changing food preferences and greater dependence on technology have influenced the dietary and physical activity patterns of both adults and children. Childhood obesity is particularly concerning because unhealthy weight gain during formative years can increase the risk of developing chronic diseases later in life. The growing attraction towards packaged snacks, fast food and screen-based entertainment makes early intervention increasingly important.
However, obesity cannot simply be attributed to a lack of discipline or individual negligence. Genetic factors, hormonal imbalances, psychological conditions, socioeconomic circumstances, stress and limited access to nutritious food can also contribute to the problem. Therefore, treating obesity merely as a personal failure is neither fair nor scientifically justified. Instead, it requires a compassionate approach supported by medical guidance, awareness and preventive healthcare.
The World Health Organization has recognised obesity as a chronic disease and a major global health concern. Its estimates indicate that approximately 1.1 billion people worldwide were living with obesity in 2024. These figures highlight the scale of the challenge and the need for coordinated action by governments, healthcare institutions and communities.
Addressing obesity requires a comprehensive change in lifestyle and public health priorities. A balanced diet, reduced consumption of processed foods, adequate sleep and regular physical activity can play an important role in preventing unhealthy weight gain. Walking, cycling, yoga and participation in sports should become part of everyday life rather than occasional activities. Schools and colleges must encourage healthy eating habits and provide opportunities for outdoor games and physical exercise.
Equally important is the responsibility of policymakers and healthcare institutions. Public awareness campaigns, accessible nutritional counselling, early screening and affordable treatment facilities can help reduce the growing burden. Workplaces should also promote healthier routines by encouraging physical activity and employee wellness programmes.
Ultimately, obesity is a real challenge, but it is not an insurmountable one. What is required is a shift in public perception—from viewing obesity as an issue of appearance to recognising it as a matter of health, dignity and quality of life. A healthier society cannot be built through medical interventions alone; it requires healthier environments, informed choices and collective responsibility.
The real measure of progress should not be the pursuit of unrealistic body standards but the creation of conditions in which people can live healthier and more fulfilling lives. Ignoring obesity today could mean paying a much heavier price in terms of healthcare costs and human suffering tomorrow.
(Author is Online Editor at “Kashmir Horizon”. The views, opinions and conclusions expressed in this article are those of the author and aren’t necessarily in accord with the views of “Kashmir Horizon”)
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