Synopsis
A new study led by Indian doctors has redefined obesity for the Indian population, shifting focus from traditional BMI to a model that includes abdominal fat and related diseases, addressing the unique health challenges faced by Asian Indians.Key Takeaways
- New obesity criteria focus on abdominal fat.
- Integrates comorbidities like diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
- Proposes a two-stage classification system.
- Highlights the rising obesity rates in India.
- Calls for tailored weight management strategies.
New Delhi, Jan 15 (NationPress) A group of medical professionals from India, including representatives from the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Delhi, has recently published a groundbreaking study that redefines obesity for the Indian demographic.
Historically, Body Mass Index (BMI) was the standard measure for obesity; however, the latest research, released in the Lancet Diabetes and Endocrinology, emphasizes the significance of abdominal obesity and its associated comorbid conditions.
This new framework arrives 15 years after the previous definition, signifying a major advancement in addressing the distinct health issues linked to obesity in Asian Indians.
The impetus for updating the obesity criteria arose from critical issues such as the obsolete BMI parameters, which solely depended on the Body Mass Index (BMI, calculated as weight in kg divided by height in meters squared) for diagnosis, coupled with new health data indicating a strong correlation between abdominal fat in Asian Indians and an earlier onset of related diseases.
As per the study, abdominal fat—which is closely associated with insulin resistance and is frequently observed in Asian Indians—is now regarded as a pivotal element in the diagnostic criteria. This new definition also incorporates the presence of comorbidities, including diabetes and cardiovascular disease, into the evaluation process, ensuring a more comprehensive consideration of obesity-related health risks and their management.
Moreover, it encompasses mechanical issues tied to obesity, such as knee and hip osteoarthritis, as well as shortness of breath during everyday tasks, all contributing to a diminished quality of life.
Dr. Naval Vikram, Professor of Medicine at AIIMS, New Delhi, stated, 'A unique definition of obesity for Indians is essential for the early identification of related diseases and the formulation of targeted management strategies. This research addresses critical gaps in our understanding and provides a coherent approach to combatting obesity in the Indian population.'
Dr. Anoop Misra, Executive Chairman & Director of Diabetes and Endocrinology at Fortis C-DOC Hospital, added, 'Obesity rates in India are escalating at an alarming rate, spreading beyond urban regions. These guidelines are innovative and straightforward to implement, presenting stage-specific strategies for addressing obesity-related issues throughout India. They also facilitate the early and effective application of weight loss interventions.'
The updated guidelines propose a two-tier classification system, targeting both generalized and abdominal obesity.
Stage 1 encompasses increased adiposity (BMI exceeding 23 kg/m²) without noticeable effects on organ functions or daily activities. Although this stage may not lead to pathological issues, it holds the potential to advance to Stage 2, which is associated with additional comorbidities.
Stage 2 represents a more severe level of obesity, characterized by a BMI greater than 23 kg/m², along with abdominal fat accumulation indicated by excess waist circumference (WC) or waist-to-height ratio (W-HtR). This stage impacts physical and organ functions, such as knee arthritis due to excess weight or the presence of type 2 diabetes.
The study advocates for personalized weight reduction strategies based on this classification to effectively address obesity.
