Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent appeal to tackle obesity and reduce oil consumption has received resounding support from the medical fraternity, who have praised the call for adopting healthier routines.
Dr (Prof) Prashant P. Joshi, Executive Director at AIIMS Nagpur, noted that India is grappling with an escalating obesity epidemic.
He attributed the rise in obesity to lifestyle changes, including a sedentary lifestyle, lack of physical activity, and a diet high in fats and calories.
He emphasised that the consumption of sweet beverages, junk food, and the reduction of fruits and vegetables in daily diets are significant contributors.
Dr Joshi pointed out the severe health consequences of obesity, such as high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, heart attacks, and paralytic strokes.
He urged the public to adopt a healthier lifestyle to prevent obesity and related diseases.
Dr Sunil Chandy, Co-Chair of the CII Public Health Council and Director of ITC Healthcare, echoed Dr Joshi's concerns.
He explained that obesity, a new epidemic affecting the Indian population, is contributing to a range of health issues, including diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, and breathing difficulties. Dr Chandy praised the Prime Minister's advice, describing the interventions as simple and affordable.
"The Prime Minister spoke so eloquently on the new epidemic that is affecting the Indian population, obesity. This lifestyle disease where our body weight exceeds a certain level, has become a public health hazard, which is adding to the risks of diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease and breathing difficulties, apart from many other diseases," he said.
He further stressed the importance of eating natural foods, incorporating more fruits and vegetables into diets, regular exercise, and limiting junk food and restaurant visits.
"Sleep and lifestyle balances must be taken to heart by all Indians," Dr Chandy added.
Dr Anshuman Darbari, Additional Professor in the Department of CTVS at AIIMS Rishikesh, commended the Prime Minister for raising awareness about the dangers of poor eating habits.
He remarked that the Prime Minister’s address highlighted the critical issues of diabetes, obesity, and heart diseases, which are all linked to poor dietary practices.
"PM Narendra Modi spoke about initiating a public awareness campaign. He raised a burning topic—diseases occurring due to wrong eating practices, like diabetes, obesity and heart diseases. He told people to be alert," Dr Darbari said.
He further emphasised the long-term consequences of unhealthy eating habits, noting, "Consumption of junk food will trouble not only us but our coming generation. Such habits and a lack of exercise impact not just the individual but also his family, society and the entire country… Obesity-related diseases like heart problems are life-threatening diseases as well as issues that affect not just your own house but the entire society."
Prime Minister Modi’s call for a nationwide effort to combat obesity and reduce oil consumption has gained momentum across various sectors, including doctors, sportspersons, and citizens.
Also read: 38th National Games kick off, PM reaffirms 2036 Olympic dream
Speaking at the 38th National Games in Dehradun earlier this week, the Prime Minister discussed the growing concern of obesity in India, stressing the increased risks of diseases like diabetes and heart disease.
Modi also advocated for the Fit India Movement, urging citizens to prioritise exercise, a balanced diet, and moderation in fat and oil intake.
He recommended a 10 per cent reduction in daily oil consumption as a practical step towards better health.
Follow us
