What the report actually says
A nationwide survey in India found that about 76% of people said they have at least one obese person among their family, friends, neighbours, or colleagues.
- 42% said they know four or more obese people in their close circle.
- The survey collected responses from over 50,000 people across 319 districts in both urban and rural areas.
This means obesity is no longer rare—it has become a common issue inside everyday social circles.
Why obesity is increasing in India
The survey and health experts pointed to several major causes.
1) Junk and ultra-processed food
About 64% of respondents said obesity in their network is linked to:
- Fatty foods
- Ultra-processed foods
- Fast food and snacks
Traditional diets are being replaced by:
- Packaged snacks
- Sugary drinks
- Fried street food
These foods are:
- High in calories
- Low in nutrition
- Easy to overeat
2) Sedentary lifestyle (lack of movement)
The same survey found that 64% blamed inactivity and lack of exercise.
Common reasons:
- Long sitting hours at work or college
- Excessive screen time
- Less walking and outdoor activity
3) Changing food habits and costs
Experts say:
- Rising food prices push people toward cheaper, calorie-dense junk food.
- Healthy foods like fruits, vegetables, and protein become harder to afford.
4) Post-COVID lifestyle changes
During the pandemic:
- Physical activity dropped
- People stayed indoors
- Eating habits worsened
This accelerated weight gain across many households.
How serious the problem is
The survey found that among people who knew obese individuals:
- 56% said those people already had diseases like:
- Diabetes
- High blood pressure
- High cholesterol
- Fatty liver
Medical experts warn that obesity increases the risk of:
- Heart disease
- Diabetes
- Hypertension
- Some cancers
Why the issue is called a “social problem”
Earlier, obesity was seen as a personal health issue.
Now, the data shows:
- Most people have someone obese in their circle.
- Families share the same eating habits.
- Household lifestyle affects everyone.
This means:
- The problem spreads through social habits.
- Solutions must involve families and communities, not just individuals.
Current obesity levels in India (official data)
According to the National Family Health Survey:
- 24% of women
- 23% of men
are overweight or obese.
Even childhood obesity is increasing.
What this means in simple words
- Obesity is becoming very common in India.
- Most people know someone who is overweight or obese.
- The main reasons are:
- Junk food
- Less physical activity
- Sedentary lifestyle
- It is increasing diseases like diabetes and heart problems.
How to reduce the risk (basic solutions)
Health experts suggest:
- Eat more home-cooked food.
- Reduce junk and sugary drinks.
- Walk or exercise daily.
- Sleep properly.
- Manage stress.
