Illness To Wellness Interactive Session on "Obesity and its Adverse Impact on Health" On the eve of World Obesity Day
In today’s world, the sedentary behaviour and physical inactivity are part and parcel of life and significantly related with the obesity. Obesity is a complex medical condition that significantly increases an individual’s risk of developing various health issues. It is a common risk factor for cardiovascular diseases, liver ailments, sleep apnea, hypertension, high cholesterol levels, reproductive issues, poor bone health, and even cancer.
World Obesity Day, observed annually on March 4, aims to raise awareness about this global health challenge. The theme for World Obesity Day 2025 is “Addressing the Global Obesity Challenge through Collective Action.”
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), a Body Mass Index (BMI) over 25 is classified as overweight, while a BMI above 30 is considered obese. In 2022, approximately 37 million children under the age of five were classified as overweight globally. Additionally, over 390 million children and adolescents aged 5–19 were affected, with 160 million living with obesity. Notably, 75 percent of these children and adolescents resided in low-and-middle-income countries.
In India, the National Family Health Survey (NFHS) highlights that the prevalence of obesity is significantly higher in urban areas compared to rural regions.
Addressing the rising rates of overweight and obesity is imperative to improving overall health outcomes and maximizing the benefits of the country’s demographic dividend. Failing to act could lead to a surge in preventable diseases, undermining the nation's potential. Enhancing the health and well-being of India’s youth is essential for sustainable development.
India’s traditional lifestyle, food, and recipes have long demonstrated how to live in harmony with nature and maintain good health. A holistic approach to sustainable weight management is key. Adopting healthy dietary practices—incorporating balanced nutrition and wholesome foods—alongside regular physical activity can help achieve and sustain a healthy weight. Balanced nutrition not only aids in weight management but also supports overall cardiovascular health.
With an objective to mitigate the adverse effects of obesity on health and promote health and well-being by raising awareness and disseminating accurate information, ASSOCHAM National Council on CSR is organizing an interactive session titled “Obesity and its Adverse Impact on Health” on the eve of World Obesity Day. This session is scheduled for Monday, March 3, 2025, at 10:30 AM at Lecture Room II, India International Centre, New Delhi.
Eminent Speakers
- (Prof.) Dr. Nikhil Tandon, Head of the Department, Endocrinology & Metabolism, All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, GoI
- Dr. Sudhir Kalhan, Chairman, Institute of Minimal Access, Metabolic & Bariatric Surgery, Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, Rajinder Nagar, New Delhi
- Dr. Shikha Sharma, Founder and Managing Director, Nutriwel Health (India ) Pvt. Ltd.
- Dr. Rajesh Kesari, Founder and Director, Total Care Control, Delhi-NCR and EC Member, RSSDI.
- Mr. Anil Rajput, Chairperson, ASSOCHAM National Council on CSR