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NEW DELHI: Despite growing concerns about the rise of diabetes and lifestyle diseases in India, a new national analysis shows that the problem may have taken root very early – nearly 7% of school children are obese and obesity rates are rising steadily across the country. The study, published in the Indian Journal of Community Medicine and conducted by researchers at the ICMR National Institute of Traditional Medicine, along with collaborators in India and the UK, analyzed data from 125 studies conducted between 1995 and 2023.The overall prevalence of obesity is 6.97%, with regional differences – highest in the north at 8.58% and lowest in central India at 5.63%. Research also shows that obesity rates continue to rise over time, linked to changes in eating habits, sedentary lifestyles and reduced physical activity. Dr Pradeep Agarwal, chief consultant (paediatrics), Sri Balaji Action Medical Institute, said the reason for the rise in obesity is poor diet and reduced activity. “Today’s kids are consuming more processed foods, sugary drinks and packaged snacks while spending less time outdoors. Academic pressure, long hours of screen time and lack of sleep all add to the problem.Obesity is no longer limited to urban areas but is spreading across regions. Researchers say the findings highlight a growing public health concern, as childhood obesity is closely linked to adult diseases such as diabetes and heart disease. AIIMS nutritionist Dr Anjali Bhola said changing dietary habits is a major reason. “Regular snacking, low-protein diets and sugary drinks, as well as eating while looking at screens, are leading to weight gain. Many packaged foods marketed as ‘healthy’ are misleading and high in calories,” she said.Dr. Agarwal also warned that obesity is becoming a medical problem earlier as cases of insulin resistance, prediabetes and hormonal changes in early childhood continue to rise. Dr. Borah emphasizes prevention. “Cutting down sugary drinks and moving toward a balanced family diet can significantly reduce long-term risks,” she said. Because obesity often persists into adulthood, experts say early intervention through better diet and physical activity is key to preventing future chronic disease.
