There has been a rise in obesity among children under five years of age with 33 states and union territories registering a spike in the number of overweight children, according to the latest National Family Health Survey (NFHS). Experts attribute the increase in obesity to a lack of physical activity and unhealthy food habits. The number of overweight children increased from 2.1 percent in NFHS-4 to 3.4 percent in NFHS-5. Not just children, obesity among women and men also increased. The percentage of overweight women rose from 20.6 percent to 24 percent while in men the number increased from 18.9 percent to 22.9 percent, according to the NFHS-5.
Only Goa, Tamil Nadu, Dadra and Nagar Haveli, and Daman and Diu registered a drop in the number of overweight children under five years of age, the data showed. According to the survey data, 30 states and union territories registered a rise in obesity among women while 33 states and UTs recorded an increase in obesity among men. While children’s obesity was counted in terms of weight-for-height. Healthcare experts have attributed the rise in obesity to unhealthy food choices and lack of physical activity among children and even adults.
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However, blaming rising incomes is not fair. Much has also to do with poor eating habits. The consumption of unhealthy foods that are high in calories from sugar or fat and contain little dietary fiber, protein, vitamins, and minerals is known to increase as families become wealthier. Childhood obesity is a more serious concern than coronavirus, says Dr. Chris van Tulleken. There is a need for effective programs and policies in multiple sectors to address overnutrition, undernutrition, mobility, and physical activity, he added. Obesity is a health issue. It is advisable to learn to direct life in the most beautiful way.
