New Delhi – The escalating rates of obesity in India pose a significant and growing threat to the nation’s economy and public health, incurring an estimated annual cost of US $28.9 billion, according to a recent report by the Tony Blair Institute for Global Change (TBI). The report, titled ‘Building on Success to Secure India’s Future Health’, emphasizes that obesity is quickly emerging as a primary health and economic concern, driven by sedentary lifestyles and poor diets.
The TBI warns that this financial burden stems from lost productivity and soaring healthcare expenses related to non-communicable diseases like diabetes and cardiovascular issues, which are heavily linked to excess weight. The authors stress that India is uniquely positioned to spearhead global prevention efforts, provided it acts decisively to leverage its existing strengths.
Prevention-First Strategy Urged
The report advocates for a radical shift towards a prevention-first health system that capitalizes on India’s robust digital and pharmaceutical infrastructure. This approach, TBI suggests, could substantially reduce preventable illnesses, increase national productivity, and improve life expectancy across the country.
To achieve this, decisive action is called for in several areas. Key recommendations include implementing stronger regulations on food products high in fat, sugar, and salt (HFSS) to curb consumption of unhealthy items. Simultaneously, the report promotes the widespread use of digital risk assessments via national platforms like Ayushman Arogya Mandirs and e-Sanjeevani to proactively identify and manage at-risk individuals. The promotion of healthier lifestyles is also advised through digital incentives.
Furthermore, recognizing the advances in pharmaceutical science, the TBI report strongly recommends planning for accessible anti-obesity drugs as India, known for its leading pharmaceutical industry, moves towards the generic medicine rollout of these innovative treatments. By prioritizing these strategic interventions, the report asserts that India can utilize its unique capabilities to secure its future health and mitigate the looming economic threat posed by the rapidly expanding obesity crisis.