New Delhi . In a new study, Indian doctors have redefined the definition of obesity for the Indian population. The study, published on Wednesday, also includes experts from AIIMS Delhi.
Till now body mass index (BMI) was used to define obesity. But this new research published in The Lancet Diabetes and Endocrinology has made the definition of abdominal obesity and its related diseases the basis.
The purpose of this new definition, which came after 15 years, is to understand the health problems related to obesity in Indians and find solutions to them. The older BMI method relied only on the ratio of weight and height. But new health data suggests that abdominal fat and associated diseases, such as diabetes and heart disease, begin to develop earlier in Indians.
Abdominal obesity has been considered a major factor, as it is associated with insulin resistance and is more prevalent in Indians. Diseases that come with obesity, such as diabetes and heart disease, are included in the definition. Physical problems caused by obesity, such as knee and hip pain or shortness of breath during daily tasks, are also taken into account.
According to Dr. Naval Vikram, Professor, AIIMS Delhi, “A different definition of obesity was very important for Indians, so that diseases can be detected early and proper care can be taken. This study is an important step in this direction.”
Dr. Anup Mishra, Fortis SeaDock Hospital, said, “Obesity is increasing rapidly in India, especially in rural areas. These guidelines are useful for the entire country and are easy to implement. Treatment will be possible in time.”
The new guidelines divide obesity into two stages, addressing both general and abdominal obesity.
In stage 1, the amount of body fat increases but there is no apparent effect on organ function or normal everyday activities. Although there may be no pathological problems in this stage, it can progress to stage 2, which can lead to other obesityrelated diseases.
Stage 2 is an advanced stage of obesity in which there is excess belly fat along with a larger waist circumference. It also affects physical and other organs. Being overweight can lead to diseases such as knee arthritis, or the presence of type 2 diabetes.
The study has suggested that weight loss strategies be prepared according to new categories, so that the problems related to obesity can be effectively solved.
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Image Credit: KhasKhabar.