Addressing the Obesity Epidemic in India: The Critical Role of Bariatric Surgery & Advanced Medical Therapy
- Abhishek Katakwar
- 2 days ago
- 3 min read
By Dr. Abhishek Katakwar, AIG Hospital
Obesity has become an urgent health crisis in India, significantly impacting individuals' quality of life, increasing healthcare costs, and escalating the prevalence of chronic diseases like type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease. Effective management strategies, including advanced surgical techniques and cutting-edge medical therapy, are essential to combat this epidemic.
The Alarming Rise of Obesity and Diabetes in India
India faces an unprecedented obesity epidemic—with approximately 24% of men and 27% of women overweight, and about 3-4% categorized as obese, according to the Global Burden of Disease Study 2019. The NFHS-5 (2019-2020) reveals that nearly 18% of women and 16% of men are living with excess #weight.
This rising trend is a major driver of India’s booming diabetes burden—over 77 million Indians are affected by diabetes today, with projections expected to reach 124 million by 2045. Excess body weight and visceral fat contribute to insulin resistance, making obesity the core factor behind increasing diabetes rates.
How Obesity Affects Lifespan, Daily Life, and Overall Quality of Life
Obesity significantly shortens lifespan—by up to 10 years—through increased risks of cardiovascular disease, stroke, certain cancers, and metabolic syndromes. On a daily basis, it limits mobility, causes fatigue, joint pain, and sleep disturbances, adversely affecting work performance and social life.
Emotionally, many individuals encounter depression, social stigma, and reduced self-esteem, leading to a diminished overall quality of life. Patients often experience difficulties participating fully in social, recreational, and even routine household activities.
Managing obesity requires a comprehensive, multi-layered approach:
- Lifestyle Modifications: Healthy diet, increased physical activity, and behavioural therapy.
-Pharmacotherapy: Newer medications—including GLP-1 receptor agonists like #Ozempic (#Semaglutide) and #Mounjaro (Tirzepatide) have demonstrated impressive weight loss and glycemic control in clinical trials.
- Surgical Interventions: For severe #obesity (BMI ≥35 kg/m² with comorbidities or ≥40 kg/m²), bariatric surgery—performed via minimally invasive laparoscopic or #robotic techniques—is the most effective long-term solution.
The Pioneering Role of #Bariatric Surgery at #AIGHospital
At AIG Hospital, under my guidance as a specialist in bariatric and laparoscopic surgery, we perform advanced procedures such as laparoscopic #sleeve #gastrectomy and robotic-assisted gastric bypass. These techniques offer patients minimally invasive options with rapid recovery, fewer complications, and excellent outcomes.
Key benefits include:
- Significant and Sustained #Weight Loss: Usually 50-60% excess weight reduction.
- High Remission Rates for #Diabetes: Over 80% of diabetics achieve remission, often reducing or stopping medications.
- Improved Quality of Life: Increased mobility, energy, and mental well-being.
- #Longevity: Reduction in obesity-related mortality rates and prolonging healthy lifespan.
Why Choose Bariatric Surgery Over Medical Therapy?
While medications like #Ozempic (Semaglutide) and #Mounjaro (Tirzepatide) have revolutionized obesity treatment with up to 20% weight loss in some cases, surgery offers distinct advantages:
- Greater, More Durable Weight Loss: Surgery provides more substantial and lasting results.
- Higher Rates of Diabetes Remission: An excellent option for patients with severe diabetes not controlled by medication.
- Cost-Effectiveness Over Time: Although initial costs are higher, surgery reduces ongoing medication expenses and hospitalisations.
- One-time, Fix-When Appropriate: Surgery offers a permanent solution, whereas medications require lifelong adherence, which can be challenging globally and in India.
The Future of #Obesity Management in India
Incorporating advanced bariatric techniques—such as laparoscopic and robotic surgeries—alongside medical therapy with drugs like #Ozempic and #Mounjaro, tailored to each patient's needs, provides a holistic approach to combating obesity.
India faces a health crisis—obesity and diabetes are shortening lives, impairing daily functioning, and reducing overall quality of life. As a specialist at #AIG #Hospital, I advocate for an integrated management plan that involves lifestyle changes, novel medications such as #Ozempic and #Mounjaro, and the strategic use of advanced bariatric surgery techniques. Early intervention, personalised care, and cutting-edge treatment options can help millions regain their health, extend their lifespan, and enjoy life to the fullest.