Why Women In Delhi Are Battling The Rising Tide Of Obesity?

Delhi has witnessed a concerning surge in obesity, a pivotal factor contributing to various lifestyle-related ailments. The Delhi government's comprehensive report on "Women and Men in Delhi: 2023" delves into the heart of this matter, revealing a staggering 8% surge in the number of women classified as obese.

From 33.5% in 2015-16, the figure catapulted to 41.3% in 2019-21, painting a stark picture of a city grappling with the root cause of numerous lifestyle-related diseases.

The Disturbing Rise Of Obesity

Men, too, find themselves caught in the widening embrace of obesity, with a notable 13.4% increase. The statistics, moving from 24.6% in 2015-16 to a concerning 38.0% in 2019-21, underscore the urgency of addressing this health crisis. Obesity, defined by a Body Mass Index (BMI) surpassing 30, emerges as a critical concern associated with heightened risks of type II diabetes, hypertension, and organ-related complications.

Amidst the shadows of escalating obesity rates, the Delhi health report also unveils a silver lining. Noteworthy improvements in key health parameters offer a glimpse of resilience. Maternal mortality and anaemia among young women have experienced a decline, demonstrating the dynamic nature of health in the capital.

Maternal Mortality Ratio: A Descent to 0.49

The Annual Report on Registration of Births and Deaths in Delhi looks hopeful, indicating a decrease in the maternal mortality ratio (MMR) from 0.55 in 2019 to 0.49 in 2022. MMR, a critical indicator, reflects the number of women succumbing to complications in pregnancy or childbirth per 1,00,000 births. This positive shift underscores the efficacy of targeted interventions and healthcare strategies.

Anaemia: A Subsiding Menace

The fight against anaemia in women's health reveals positive outcomes. The report notes a significant decrease in the prevalence of anaemia among young women (15–49 years old), dropping from 54.3% in 2015–16 to 49.9% in 2019–21. This decline signifies a collective stride towards better nutritional practices and healthcare awareness.

Prescription for Change: Advocating Proactive Measures

Addressing the multifaceted challenge of obesity demands immediate and comprehensive action. Doctors emphasize that obesity, characterized by a Body Mass Index (BMI) exceeding 30, poses an imminent threat with its insidious links to type II diabetes, hypertension, and organ-related complications. 

Dr Nikhil Gupta, Senior Consultant and Chief of Gastro-Intestinal Surgery at Sri Balaji Action Medical Institute, in a conversation with TOI, emphasizes the pivotal role of proactive lifestyle interventions. These interventions, grounded in regular exercise and dietary modifications, particularly target those at high risk. He advocates for early awareness and screenings, commencing at the age of 10 and continuing biennially. This proactive approach is crucial for the timely identification of obesity-related diseases, safeguarding vital organs from potential damage.

Proactive lifestyle interventions, grounded in regular exercise and dietary modifications, emerge as the linchpin for prevention, especially for those at high risk.

Delhi stands at a crossroads, grappling with the dual realities of escalating obesity rates and commendable improvements in maternal health and anaemia. The challenge is formidable, but so is the resilience of a city that strives for a healthier tomorrow.