TBI report warns of obesity crisis in India: Urgent action needed to prevent economic and health threats

NEW DELHI: Being overweight is not only costly for individuals but also for the nation as a whole. The Tony Blair Institute for Global Change (TBI) has issued a warning, stating that obesity-related diseases in India already cost over Rs 2,900 crores ($28.9 billion) annually and if urgent action isn’t taken to control this issue, it poses a significant health and economic threat to the country.On the eve of Anti-Obesity Day, TBI released its report, “Building on Success to Secure India’s Future Health.” This report recommends four immediate steps for India to effectively manage this rapidly spreading epidemic: stricter regulations on unhealthy foods, widespread digital screening through Ayushman Arogya Mandirs and e-Sanjeevani, incentives for healthy behaviours, and planning for affordable anti-obesity drugs as generics become available. The report highlights India’s strong position to lead the world in prevention, supported by robust digital platforms, expanding primary care services, and a robust pharmaceutical manufacturing sector.Vivek Agarwal, the head of TBI’s India office, emphasizes India’s unique opportunity to transform preventive care and alleviate the increasing burden of obesity through its digital health strengths.