Teen obesity: Cost of modern habits and growing health concern in India

Sedentary lifestyles, easy access to food, and poor diet are becoming an alarming cause of a problem in India, and teenagers are the ones getting the worst hit by it. Experts warn obesity is becoming a much bigger problem than it appears and if not addressed early, this trend could have serious consequences.

Teenagers are spending more time glued to their phones, video games, or computers, and in between this, physical activity has taken a back seat. The COVID-19 pandemic further increased the screen time with online classes, remote work, and digital entertainment. With lesser time spent outside, physical activity among adolescents has dropped sharply, leaving many of the adolescents at the risk of weight gain.

Experts believe that easy availability of fast food through online delivery apps has added to the problem. Teenagers are binge eating pizzas, burgers, sugary drinks and fried snacks. These meals are often full of unhealthy fats and refined carbs but low in protein and fiber, leading to poor nutrition and weight gain.

Obesity and health risks
Teenagers with obesity may suffer from low confidence, but this does not mean obesity is merely a cosmetic concern. Obesity may make an individual suffer psychological stress, but more than that it is a metabolic disease that affects nearly every organ of the body. Over time, it can lead to serious health issues such as type-2 diabetes, high blood pressure, sleep apnea, fatty liver disease, back pain and joint pain. While severe obesity can cause hormonal changes, in later stages of life, it may affect fertility. In the long run, obesity can cause complications like kidney failure, stroke, liver cirrhosis and even heart attacks. It is also linked to the increased risk of certain cancers, including breast, uterine, colon, and pancreatic cancer.

The line of treatment
Studies show genetics also play a major role in obesity among children. Children with obese parents are more likely to develop obesity. However, the good news is, healthy lifestyle choices can become the biggest modifiable factor and not all obese teenagers need surgery to lose weight. Experts suggest 60 minutes of outdoor physical activity supported by a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables and lean proteins can support health.

Early medical evaluation can help rule out endocrine disorders that might be contributing to weight gain. Surgeries, such as bariatric procedures, are generally considered for individuals with extremely high body mass index or when obesity is causing severe health problems.

However, the key is prevention. Physical activity, limited screen time, and adapting healthier habits at home can go a long way in reducing obesity rates and safeguarding future health.

(Dr. Tarun Mittal, Vice-Chairperson, Laparoscopic & Robotic bariatric Surgery, Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, Delhi)