Unhealthy Diets, Physical Inactivity Fuelling Obesity In India: Former WHO Chief Scientist

Unhealthy diets and lack of physical activity are the main reasons behind the rising issue of abdominal obesity in India, according to Soumya Swaminathan, former WHO Chief Scientist. She emphasizes the need for promoting healthier diets and creating more opportunities for exercise to combat obesity, which is a growing global health concern. Abdominal obesity can lead to serious health problems like diabetes, hypertension, and cancer. A recent study based on data from the National Family Health Survey revealed that abdominal obesity is more common among women, especially those in their thirties and forties. The study also highlighted the need for targeted interventions to address this issue, especially in urban areas and among non-vegetarians.