Half of the world population will be overweight by 2035; India's healthcare cost to touch $8.43

According to a study by the World Obesity Federation, a partner of WHO, more than half of the world population will be overweight or obese by 2035 and the healthcare cost of obesity will increase and reach 4.32 trillion USD annually. 

Since, 1975 there has been no decline in obesity in any country. And, in India according to National Family Health Survey, there has been a significant rise in obesity. The proportion of men that are obese has increased from 9.3 per cent in 2006 to 22.9 per cent in 2021. For women, the increase has been from 12.6 to 24 per cent during the same period.

Another study points out that the prevalence of obesity and overweight will likely cost the global economy 3.3 per cent of GDP by 2060. 

The estimated economic cost of obesity for India is estimated to be 8.43 billion USD as healthcare costs by 2035, while others comprise 109.38 billion USD (in premature mortality) 176.32 million USD (as direct non-medical costs), 2.23 billion dollars (absenteeism) and 9.10 billion dollars for reduced productivity. 

Experts believe that sedentary lifestyle is a major reason behind the increase in obesity. Changing food habits and consuming refined and processed foods are the primary cause of obesity. 

Also watch: Survey shows obesity more prevalent among Indians in the past 15 years