- The 3-day conference on advancements in obesity prevention, management and treatment, to take place in Ahmedabad from Friday to Sunday -Dec 13 to 15
- Gee Hyun Kang, President of the Asia Oceania Association for the Study of Obesity, will be the chief guest, and Philip Scherer, former President of the World Obesity Federation will deliver an online keynote address
- Around 5% of the country’s population is affected by morbid obesity
NE HEALTH BUREAU
AHMEDABAD, DEC 12
Our whole country is struggling with obesity and it is rising due to unhealthy eating habits, inactivity and lifestyles. Throwing light on the detrimental impact of excessive screen time on physical activity, contributing to poor eating habits and unhealthy lifestyles, experts stressed on eating healthy food, yoga, walking and observing breathing exercise. Now, obesity has reached epidemic proportions and is becoming one of the biggest health crises in India, with prevalence rates rising alarmingly over the past few decades. Studies show that around 5% of the country’s population is affected by morbid obesity. And above all India stands third in global obesity ranking. Obesity is a major risk factor for various non-communicable diseases (NCDs), such as type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, hypertension, stroke and various forms of cancer.
Aiming to address this pandemic, The All India Association for Advancing Research in Obesity (AIAARO) is organising “Obesity India 2024” , its 17th Annual Conference, in Ahmedabad from December 13 to 15. The event, supported by World Obesity Federation , brings together experts, researchers and practitioners to discuss obesity, one of the most pressing health challenges in India and globally.
With more than 500 participants, including healthcare professionals such as obesity surgeons, endocrinologists, diabetologists, physicians, nutritionists and educators, the conference will facilitate interdisciplinary collaboration and share advancements in the understanding and management of obesity. It will also provide unmatched networking opportunities with national and international experts and numerous knowledge-sharing sessions.
We aim to raise awareness, reduce stigma: Dr. Mahendra Narwaria
Dr. Mahendra Narwaria, President of AIAARO and Organising Chairman of the conference, said, “Through Obesity India 2024, we aim to raise awareness, reduce stigma and promote evidence-based solutions to address this epidemic. We will engage with not just the medical community but also society and policymakers to integrate obesity education into school/medical college curriculums and public health initiatives. The conference will feature renowned speakers, including Gee Hyun Kang, President of the Asia Oceania Association for the Study of Obesity, as the chief guest, and an online keynote address by Philip Scherer, former President of the World Obesity Federation.”
Food is medicine: Dr. Banshi Saboo
Dr. Banshi Saboo , Past President of AIAARO and Programme Chair, said, “The Obesity India conference is taking place in Ahmedabad for the second time. It will feature cutting-edge research presentations, interactive workshops and expert panel discussions aimed at advancing the understanding of obesity prevention, management and treatment.”
According to Dr Sahoo, obesity can be prevented by consuming less “bad” fat and more “good” fat. Polyunsaturated fats can improve cholesterol levels and reduce obesity risk.
“Consume less processed and sugary foods, eat more vegetables and fruits, eat plenty of dietary fibre, eat low–glycemic index food, do regular aerobic activities, weight training that involves all your major muscles at least two times per week and focus on reducing daily stress. Ancient wisdom of going early to bed and getting up early with sunrise will go a long way in arresting the rise in obesity,” said Dr Saboo.
The participants will also explore the science behind obesity, delving into topics such as pathophysiology, the latest treatments and innovations like mounjaro and semaglutide injections. Experts will share insights into lifestyle interventions and preventive strategies and address the stigma associated with obesity.
Dr. Mahendra Narwaria, who previously served as President of the Obesity Surgery Society of INDIA, also emphasised the inclusive and multidisciplinary nature of AIAARO, which brings together diverse healthcare professionals to combat obesity comprehensively. This society has been functioning for last 20 years and organising such annual conferences on different topic related Need of the hour, this year it is in Ahmedabad. The society is associated with the World Obesity Federation and is a partner with the World Health Organisations (WHO) NCD alliance.