Over 1 in 4 Indian women are obese, raising alarms about heart disease and diabetes. Urgent action is needed to promote healthier lifestyles.
A silent health crisis is unfolding in India as obesity rates among women soar, posing severe risks to public health. Recent data reveals that 24% of women aged 15–49 are obese, with rates climbing to 32% among those aged 40–49. Urban areas bear the brunt, with 29.8% of women classified as obese compared to 19% in rural regions. States like Delhi (41%) and Puducherry (46%) report the highest prevalence, while poorer households show lower rates, highlighting a link with wealth.
This surge in obesity is driving a wave of non-communicable diseases. Excess weight fuels heart disease, with heart attacks striking Indians in their 30s. Type 2 diabetes is also spiking, positioning India as a potential global diabetes hub by 2025. Obesity further elevates risks of breast and colon cancers, alongside conditions like polycystic ovarian syndrome and fatty liver disease. Severe obesity can slash women’s life expectancy by up to five years.
Unhealthy diets rich in processed foods, sedentary urban lifestyles, and cultural myths equating weight with prosperity are key culprits. Experts urge immediate action: regular exercise, balanced nutrition, and public awareness campaigns to shift mindsets. The Indian Council of Medical Research calls for nutrition education and policies to make healthy foods accessible.
With projections warning that one-third of Indians could be obese by 2050, the time to act is now. Community-driven efforts and policy reforms can curb this epidemic, safeguarding women’s health and India’s future
