Junk Food Consumption Causing Obesity Pandemic in India

Abstract

In terms of epidemiology, demographics, and dietary habits, India is undergoing several changes. The startlingly high rates of childhood undernutrition in India, together with the rapidly rising prevalence of chronic illnesses and their risk factors, like obesity and overweight, across all social classes, are making the country's health issues worse. Obesity has emerged as a major public health concern affecting individuals of all ages. India is reportedly ranked third (just behind US and China) among nations with the highest rates of obesity. In this paper we study and analyse the trends in obesity in India and examine the leading cause for such concerning rise in obesity in the nation. This will help government formulate the policy responses appropriately to tame the rising trend in obesity and to confer to Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030.