Hubballi: The rising prevalence of overweight and obesity in Karnataka has emerged as a major public health concern, said Dr Moinoddin G, director, bariatric and metabolic surgery (South India region), Manipal Hospital.Addressing reporters on Saturday, Dr Moinoddin said that according to the NFHS-6 survey (2023-24), 41.2% of women and 36.4% of men in the state are obese. This marks a significant increase compared to the 2019-21 survey, when 30.2% of women and 30.9% of men in the state were overweight.The proportion is even higher among urban women, with nearly 51% classified as overweight or obese. A combination of factors, including diets rich in processed foods and excess carbohydrates, sedentary lifestyles, and metabolic conditions such as insulin resistance, hypothyroidism and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), are contributing to the growing burden of obesity, he said.Treatment for obesity is personalised based on an individual’s body mass index (BMI), overall health and associated medical conditions. “Individuals with a BMI of 25 or above are classified as overweight, while those with a BMI of 30 or more are considered obese. While BMI provides a standard measure, obesity is influenced by multiple factors, including lifestyle choices and genetic predisposition,” Dr Moinoddin said.“Our treatment approach involves providing specialised care for individuals who are overweight. Patients undergoing bariatric surgery must attend regular follow-ups with an endocrinologist, diabetologist and surgeon to ensure better long-term outcomes,” he added.
