Enter the danger zone: 58% of young adults in India do not consider obesity as a disease

Young adults in Indian cities are blissfully unaware of the dangers of obesity. Only 28% of the total population know the scientific definition of obesity and the health hazards associated with it.

Young adults in Indian cities are blissfully unaware of the dangers of obesity, a survey report here said Wednesday.

"The problem is a serious one as over 58% of young adults do not consider obesity as a disease and thus have a casual approach about the problem," said bariatric surgeon Jayashree Todkar, who conducted the survey in collaboration with Hiranandani Hospital.

According to the survey, 70% of the concerned population has a family history of obesity.

It also stated that the urban, young population lacks awareness about the disease.

"Only 28% of the total population know the scientific definition of obesity and the health hazards associated with it," the report said.

The survey report was an outcome of a sample size of 9,670 youngsters from 10 city-based colleges.

"The most worrisome fact is that the young, Indian male population does not view obesity as a health hazard, but view it only as a matter of size and shape. A meagre 6% of the young Indian population is involved in some kind of physical activity," Todkar added.