Over 80% of IT professionals in Hyderabad’s Hitech City are obese: AIG study

Hyderabad: A study conducted by AIG Hospitals has revealed that 80% of IT professionals in Hyderabad’s Hitech City are overweight, highlighting a growing health crisis among tech workers. Experts warn that long hours at desks, irregular eating habits, and lack of physical activity are contributing to rising obesity rates in the sector.

The findings were presented at AIG Hospitals’ ‘Break the Weight’ initiative on World Obesity Day, where medical professionals and policymakers discussed the urgent need for intervention. Dr. D. Nageshwar Reddy, Chairman of AIG Hospitals, pointed out that this trend reflects a broader issue across India, where 60% of the population is overweight, and 30% is on the path to obesity.

“Obesity is no longer just a Western issue—it is a pressing concern in India. If we don’t address it now, it will severely strain our healthcare system,” Dr. Reddy warned.

Study Reveals Rising Obesity Among Children

The study also found that 40% of children in government schools in Hyderabad were diagnosed with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), a condition closely linked to obesity. Experts attribute this to increased consumption of processed foods, lack of physical activity, and changing lifestyles.

Recognizing the widespread impact of obesity on multiple organs, AIG Hospitals assembled 15 specialists from internal medicine, endocrinology, hepatology, cardiology, gynecology, pulmonology, orthopedics, physiotherapy, and nutrition to discuss comprehensive treatment approaches.

Dr. Rakesh, Director of Endoscopy (Bariatric & Metabolic Sciences) at AIG Hospitals, emphasized the need for a multidisciplinary approach. “Obesity is not just about diet and exercise—it is a chronic, relapsing disorder that requires medical intervention,” he stated. He also urged for greater awareness to reduce the stigma around obesity, encouraging people to seek professional help without hesitation.

PM Modi Highlights India’s Obesity Crisis

The issue of rising obesity was also addressed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in his latest ‘Mann Ki Baat’ address. He emphasized that obesity is becoming a major health burden for India and called for greater awareness and preventive measures.

“If we do not take control of our health today, obesity-related diseases will overwhelm our nation’s healthcare system in the future,” PM Modi warned. He urged individuals and organizations to adopt healthier habits and promote lifestyle changes to combat this growing epidemic.

Beyond Food: Stress, Lifestyle, and Mental Health

Chief Guest CV Anand, Commissioner of Police, Hyderabad, stressed that obesity is not just about diet but is influenced by lifestyle, environment, and stress.

To address obesity within law enforcement, CV Anand launched Fit Cop, an app with 18,000 enrolled officers. The initiative identified 300-400 officers at risk for lifestyle diseases, showing that obesity is as much a mental challenge as a physical one.

“We must tackle both the medical and psychological aspects of obesity,” he stated.

AIG Hospitals’ Commitment to Obesity Awareness

To provide ongoing support for those struggling with obesity, AIG Hospitals launched a dedicated website for its Center for Obesity and Metabolic Therapy, offering expert consultations and treatment options. The hospital also announced that ‘Break the Weight’ will be an annual event, aiming to spread awareness and promote long-term health solutions.

With obesity rates rising among IT professionals and children, healthcare experts emphasize the need for immediate action to prevent long-term health complications.