Experts say, obesity in women raises the risk of many severe chronic diseases like diabetes, PCOS, infertility, heart diseases, and even cancer – most common being breast and ovarian cancer. This makes maintaining a healthy weight crucial. We spoke to health experts who dissect the dangers of weight gain and share tips for managing it
Being obese poses significant health risks for women. It elevates the susceptibility to chronic conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and certain cancers. Photo Courtesy: iStock
- Prevalence of abdominal obesity in India was found to be 40 pct in women and 12 pct in men
- Experts say obesity can elevate the risk of diabetes, heart diseases and certain cancers
- Health experts share key insights and tips for maintaining a healthy weight for women
Experts say, obesity in women raises the risk of many severe chronic diseases like diabetes, PCOS, infertility, heart diseases, and even cancer – most common being breast and ovarian cancer. This makes maintaining a healthy weight crucial. We spoke to health experts who dissect the dangers of weight gain and share tips for managing it
A hectic lifestyle where work precedes health has become a way of life for many, especially in metropolitan cities. This coupled with a sedentary lifestyle and unhealthy eating habits has led to many becoming obese. Obesity in women, however, is more common.
A report published by Lancet in May 2023 states, “The prevalence of abdominal obesity in the country was found to be 40 per cent in women and 12 per cent in men. The findings show that five to six out of 10 women between the ages of 30-49 are abdominally obese. The association of abdominal obesity in women is stronger with older age groups, urban residents, wealthier sections, and non-vegetarians.”
This has become a matter of concern for health experts. They say obesity in women goes beyond just heart disease or diabetes affecting their reproductive health as well. Ahead of Women’s Healthy Weight Day 2024, we conversed with three medical experts to dig deep into the health impacts obesity has on women.
“Obesity is a silent disease of the modern era. It affects women from adolescence to post-menopause and triggers various physical as well as mental health conditions,” says Dr Vaishali Joshi, consultant, obstetrician and gynaecologist, Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital, Mumbai.
Richa Shukla, chief dietician, Jehangir Hospital, Pune, says, “Excess weight puts a strain on the body, leading to a higher risk of developing chronic diseases.”
“Being obese poses significant health risks for women, triggering hormonal imbalances, insulin resistance, and inflammation. These factors elevate the susceptibility to chronic conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and certain cancers,” says Dr Paritosh S Gupta, head of general and minimally invasive surgery, Artemis Hospital, Gurugram.
Obesity health risks
Shukla says, “Obesity in women can increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases, including hypertension, heart disease, and stroke. Type 2 diabetes is more prevalent in obese women due to insulin resistance.” She lists down key health risks associated with obesity that one must be aware of.
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