- Obesity is a prevalent health issue in Gujarat, India, with the prevalence increasing over time
- The Obesity & Wellness Centre at Marengo CIMS Hospital provides personalized care for obesity, offering specialized assessments, treatment, and support for long-term health and wellness
- According to a Lancet study, obesity in Gujarat increased by 149% among men and 121.6% among women between 1990 and 2016
- Now new Advanced Weight Loss Medicines are available which causes weight loss easily for whom even Diet & Exercise is not working: Dr Rikin M Shah (Scope-Certified Obesity Specialist)
NE HEALTH BUREAU
AHMEDABAD, NOV 14
According to India’s medical panel, the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), over 11% of India’s population has diabetes. ICMR also revealed that at least 25% of Indians are classified as overweight or obese. A 2023 study revealed that “treating obesity is the cornerstone in the prevention and management of type 2 diabetes.” While South India is numero uno in obesity, Gujarat trails behind them.
To address this vexatious issue, Marengo CIMS Hospital on Thursday launched Obesity & Wellness Centre, a cutting-edge facility dedicated to providing specialized care for individuals facing obesity, diabetes, and metabolic disorders. This advanced centre represents a major advancement in tackling the pressing health challenges of obesity in Gujarat. The Obesity & Wellness Centre, guided by a team of highly experienced specialists offers comprehensive, personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient’s unique needs.
The team of doctors includes Dr Vivek Patel (Consultant Endocrinologist), Dr Rikin M Shah (Scope-Certified Obesity Specialist), Dr Abhilash Chokshi (Consultant Laparoscopic Surgeon), and Consultant Gastroenterologists Dr Bhavesh Thakkar, Dr Rajeevkumar Bansal, and Dr Nilesh Toke. This multidisciplinary team is dedicated to providing holistic care that addresses both the physical and metabolic aspects of obesity, ensuring a thorough and supportive approach to each patient’s health journey.
Urbanization, sedentary lifestyles, and high-calorie diets have contributed to this surge leading to 70% of urban population is overweight. The increase in obesity is alarming due to numerous health conditions, including type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and various cancers. Globally, obesity continues to strain healthcare systems, requiring a multi-faceted approach to address it, including public health initiatives, lifestyle modifications, and access to specialized healthcare facilities. The Obesity & Wellness Centre is established to empower individuals with the knowledge, resources, and medical support necessary to lead healthier lives.
The centre provides Diagnosis and Root Cause Analysis, with specialized assessments to identify underlying factors contributing to obesity and related metabolic disorders. For patients dealing with health issues linked to obesity, the centre focuses on Management of Obesity Complications, offering treatments for conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, and joint problems. Nutritional support is a key part of the approach, featuring Dietary Counselling and Personalized Diet Plans crafted by expert nutritionists to promote sustainable weight loss. Additionally, Physical Activity and Exercise Guidance includes customized fitness routines designed to enhance physical health and support healthy weight reduction. For eligible patients, the centre offers Counselling for Bariatric Surgery, providing advanced surgical options for effective weight management if needed. To ensure lasting results, Post-Weight Loss Care programs are available to help patients maintain their weight loss and prevent relapse, including lifestyle counselling and continuous support.
Dr Vivek Patel, Consultant Endocrinologist (Adult & Pediatric), says, “We are excited to launch the Obesity & Wellness Centre at Marengo CIMS Hospital. Our mission is to provide specialized, compassionate care for individuals dealing with obesity, diabetes, and metabolic disorders. Through evidence-based treatments and personalised plans, we aim to empower our patients to achieve healthier, more fulfilling lives.”
Dr Rikin Shah, Consultant Medicine Scope Certified Obesity Specialist says, “At the Obesity & Wellness Centre, our mission is to offer a comprehensive and patient-centred approach to tackling obesity and its related health challenges. Obesity is a complex, multifactorial condition, and effective treatment goes beyond just weight loss. Through a combination of advanced medical interventions, personalized diet and exercise plans, and continuous lifestyle support, we aim to address the root causes and complications of obesity in a sustainable way. I believe in tailoring our treatment plans to meet the unique needs of each individual, empowering them to take control of their health and improve their quality of life. Now new Advanced Weight Loss Medicines are available which causes weight loss easily in whom even Diet & Exercise is not working. Our team is committed to providing a safe and supportive environment where patients can achieve meaningful, long-term results.”
“While 98% of te obesity can be cured with diet control and medication, only 2% requires surgery. The treatment cost is not covered under any health insurance or PMJAY as the treatment is done in the OPD,” Dr Rinkin Shah added.
Dr. Abhilash Choksi, Consultant Laparoscopic General Surgeon says, “This centre will be a critical resource for patients needing comprehensive obesity and metabolic disorder management. With advanced treatment options and a multidisciplinary team, we aim to offer personalized care plans that cater to each patient’s unique needs, enhancing their overall quality of life.”
Gaurav Rekhi, Regional Director for the West, states, “The Obesity and Wellness Centre was established as part of our dedication to tackling the rising health issues linked to obesity. Our goal is to offer individuals comprehensive and compassionate care as they work toward restoring their health and well-being. Through innovative treatment options and a patient-centred approach, we strive to empower our community to take charge of their health and create lasting, positive changes”.
Obesity has become a significant global health issue, affecting over 890 million adults and 160 million children and adolescents worldwide, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). According to the World Obesity Federation, India has 3rd highest percentage of Obese persons in the world. The prevalence of obesity/overweight has seen a sharp rise in recent years, with estimates suggesting that around 6% of the population is affected, amounting to nearly 70 million people. According to a Lancet study, obesity in Gujarat increased by 149% among men and 121.6% among women between 1990 and 2016. The study says that the prevalence of obesity was 4.7 among every 100 men in 1990. The figure rose to 11.6 in 2016. A survey in Ahmedabad found that two out of every 10 residents do not meet the WHO’s recommendations on physical activity. Doctors in Ahmedabad say that lifestyle diseases are increasing due to unhealthy lifestyles.
