Childhood Obesity On A Rise In India; Expert Reveals Major Causes And Lifestyle Changes To Stay Protected

Childhood obesity has become a significant health issue, particularly affecting children aged 10 to 15 years. The prevalence of obesity in this age group is alarming, as it can lead to a range of serious health complications - including type 2 diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular diseases, sleep apnoea, liver disease, joint problems, high cholesterol, gallstones, hormonal imbalances, and fatty liver disease during childhood or later in life. Dr. Tushar Parikh, Senior Consultant - Paediatrician & Neonatologist, Motherhood Hospitals, Kharadi, Pune, while speaking to Times Now Digital said, "Childhood obesity can also contribute to mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, and stress." He explained why maintaining an optimal body weight is crucial for children's overall well-being and to mitigate the risk of these health complications.

Childhood obesity has been on a steady rise in India, with significant increases observed in the last decade. According to a meta-analysis of 21 studies conducted from 2003 to 2023, the pooled prevalence of childhood obesity was found to be 8.4%, while the prevalence of childhood overweight was 12.4%. This trend is evident across both rural and urban areas, although urban children were initially more prone to obesity.

However, recent studies suggest that obesity rates have increased significantly in rural areas as well. Several key factors contribute to the rising rates of childhood obesity. In today's digital age, children are increasingly exposed to electronic screens, leading to excessive screen time. Many children prefer staying indoors and engaging with smartphones, laptops, or video games rather than participating in outdoor activities. This sedentary lifestyle reduces mobility and encourages unhealthy eating habits.

Furthermore, excessive screen time often coincides with binge eating high-calorie, processed foods such as chips, sodas, candies, and fast food. "Consuming these foods without proper portion control can significantly increase the risk of obesity," Dr. Tushar explained.

Furthermore, he explained ways to effectively manage healthy weight in children.

Encouraging outdoor activities by introducing children to engage in games and sports fosters a positive attitude toward exercise. Additionally, establishing clear rules about screen time can create a healthy balance between digital engagement and physical activity. Educating children on mindful eating, including portion sizes, is essential, especially during meals filled with their favourite foods. Promoting healthy eating habits by focusing on nutritious, homemade meals over junk food can in still a preference for foods rich in essential nutrients.

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