THE OBESITY EPIDEMIC

Obesity and lifestyle disorders are becoming serious public health concerns across India with rapid urbanisation and lifestyle changes, but the situation is even more alarming in one of its most literate states - Kerala.

- Rajiv Ambat

As we observe World Obesity Day on 4th March, it's important to recognise how Kerala, despite being known as "God's Own Country," carries the weight of some of the highest obesity rates in the nation. According to the National Family Health Survey (2020), around 38.1% of women and 36.4% of men in Kerala are classified as obese - much higher than the national averages of 24% and 20.6%, respectively. To make matters worse, a recent study in 'The Lancet Regional Health' found that 65.4% of women in the state suffer from abdominal obesity, the highest in the country. These statistics also point to rising health risks, ranging from diabetes and heart disease to joint pain and more!

It is important to look at these statistics and trends in light of the high literacy rate of the state - the highest in India. Almost every Malayalee knows what it takes to lead a healthier life. People are well aware of the importance of balanced diets, regular exercise, and stress management. Information isn't the missing piece of the puzzle - at least not among Malayalees. The state also has access to quality healthcare, a culture of education, and a community that values knowledge.

So, if awareness isn't the issue, what is? The answer lies in a complex mix of factors that go beyond just knowing what to do. It's about mental health, emotional eating, cultural habits, work-life imbalance, and the difficulty of sustaining lifestyle changes in the long run.

The Role of Mental Health in Obesity