New Delhi: Union Minister Jitendra Singh on Sunday emphasized that the primary approach to addressing obesity and diabetes should be prevention, rather than relying solely on medication.
He said that lifestyle changes, awareness, and scientifically backed information are crucial to address the growing health challenge of metabolic disorders in India.
Dr. Singh, who is also a renowned diabetologist and professor of medicine, was speaking at the launch of the book “The Weight Loss Revolution – Weight Loss Drugs and How to Use Them” authored by endocrinologist Dr. Ambrish Mithal along with journalist Shivam Vij.
The Minister noted that India, once known as the diabetes capital of the world, is now also emerging as the obesity capital, ranking third globally in childhood obesity.
He warned against the unchecked spread of disinformation through unscientific diet charts and fad regimens, saying diet plans must always be based on scientifically validated principles.
Dr. Singh emphasised the importance of “Indian solutions for Indian patients” and pointed out that central obesity -- fat around the abdomen -- poses a more serious risk for Indians compared to Western populations.
Sometimes, he said, “a simple inch tape around the waist may be more meaningful than a BMI chart.”
Emphasizing the importance of lifestyle interventions, Dr. Jitendra Singh highlighted that studies in India indicate regular yoga practice can lower the risk of type-2 diabetes by up to 40%. He advocated for a holistic approach that blends lifestyle changes, modern medicine, and traditional practices.
Commenting on the growing use of new weight loss medications like Ozempic and Mounjaro, Dr. Singh urged caution, noting that clinical outcomes take years to fully understand. He likened this to the refined oil episode in India, where premature conclusions were later proven incorrect.
Dr. Singh also pointed out that with over 70% of India’s population under the age of 40, the country cannot afford to let lifestyle diseases impact its youth. He stressed that prevention-focused strategies are essential to safeguard the future and health potential of the younger generation.
Quoting Mark Twain, he remarked, “Economics is too serious a subject to be left to an economist,” and added that obesity and diabetes are too serious to be left only to doctors.
Unless there is mass awareness, he said, optimum results in tackling these diseases will not be possible.
The Minister praised Dr. Mithal’s book as timely and authoritative, saying it will help both medical professionals and the public separate facts from misinformation in an era dominated by social media and quick fixes.
