Archive · 9 Dec 2025
Experts Push for Obesity Recognition as Disease in India
Doctors and health experts in India are asking the government to officially call obesity a 'disease.'
Right now, India doesn't do this, which makes it hard for people to get the right treatments and support.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has new rules about medicines that help with weight loss, but these rules aren't being followed well in India because obesity isn't seen as a serious health problem.
Experts say that if obesity is called a disease, more people will get the help they need, and it will be easier to stop the health problems that come with being overweight.
They also say that calling it a disease won't make people feel bad; instead, it will help them get the care they need without feeling blamed.
WHO's new guideline on GLP-1 medicines signals a shift in global obesity management.
Experts urge India to recognize obesity as a chronic disease to improve access and treatment.
Current lack of official classification leads to inconsistent policies and insurance coverage.
Obesity is linked to over 240 medical disorders, including diabetes and heart disease.
Recognizing obesity as a disease could streamline screening, treatment, and insurance support.
- Who
- Experts in diabetology, endocrinology, and clinical dietetics in India.
- What
- Advocacy for recognizing obesity as a chronic disease in India.
- When
- Following the WHO's new guideline on GLP-1 medicines.
- Where
- India.
- Why
- To improve access, affordability, and standard prescribing guidelines for obesity treatment.
- GLP-1 Medicines
- Medications that address appetite, cravings, and metabolism.
- WHO Guideline
- Calls for expanding access to GLP-1 medicines through pooled procurement, tiered pricing, and voluntary licensing.
- Obesity Classification
- Not officially recognized as a disease in India.
- Health Impact
- Obesity fuels over 240 medical disorders, including diabetes, heart disease, and 13 types of cancers.
- Insurance Coverage
- Currently limited to individuals with a BMI of 35-40 for surgery.
- Global Obesity Statistics
- Associated with 3.7 million deaths worldwide in 2024, with projections to double by 2030.
