Indus Health Plus Abnormality Report has indicated that desk jobs and lack of exercises is now increasing the obesity population in the country. The 25 – 30 per cent of younger population are at higher risk of obesity due to high intake of trans fat, prolonged sitting jobs and junk food. Youngsters suffering with obesity are under the risk of heart diseases and diabetes by 3 – 4 per cent.

In its study based on preventive healthcare check-ups conducted from January – to October  this year on 13,850 people states that 14 per cent of total population are at risk of obesity in Bengaluru alone. The city is known for an educated and working population.

On the occasion of the World Obesity Day observed annually on November 26 observed to spread awareness on measures to control obesity. According to the WHO projections, at least one third of the world's population is overweight and one-fifth of the world's people are obese.

Indus report indicated, out of 10, 4 people are overweight or obese and 15 per cent of them are  from the younger working population. Desk jobs and lack of exercise has increased the cases of obesity amongst the males in Bengaluru.

“There is sharp decline in physical activities among population residing in Bengaluru which doubles the risk for obesity. Trends have shown males are prone to increased waist circumference which increases co morbid diseases like hypertension, diabetes, stroke etc. 20 per cent of youngsters between 25 to 35 years of age group consume junk and processed food which is giving rise to obesity today,” noted Amol Naikawadi, Preventive Healthcare Specialist Indus Health Plus.

Around 25-30 per cent of the population from Bengaluru between 35-45 years had complained joint pain and feeling of laziness and tiredness. Besides 5 – 7 per cent of obese women amongst working population suffer from joint pain. It has been observed that compared to last 2 years, the cases of heart problem due to obesity in semi urban parts has increased by 3 per cent and mostly in the age group of 25-35 years.

Obesity is a consequence of complex interaction of genetics, diet metabolism and physical inactivity and a major health risk factor for high blood pressure, diabetes, heart disease, and osteoarthritis. The development of good lifestyle habits can prevent obesity, he added.

A shift from consuming saturated fats to unsaturated fats, increase intake of vegetables, fruits, legumes, whole grain and nuts helps in keeping obesity at bay. Consuming food at right time and during frequent intervals helps in weight management, he said.