Obesity
Also known as: Overweight, Motapa
Obesity is excess body fat that harms health. For Indians, a BMI of 25 or above is considered obese and a waist over 90 cm (men) or 80 cm (women) is a risk sign.
Symptoms
- High BMI
- Large waist
- Breathlessness on exertion
- Joint pain
- Snoring
Causes
- Calorie intake above needs
- Inactivity
Risk factors
- Sedentary work
- Processed food
- Poor sleep
- Genetics
Complications
- Diabetes
- High BP
- Heart disease
- Fatty liver
- Joint disease
Treatment overview
Diet, physical activity and behaviour change; medicines or bariatric surgery for selected patients.
Prevention
- Balanced diet
- Daily activity
- Adequate sleep
When to see a doctor
If BMI is 25 or above with health problems.
Tests used
Specialists who treat it
Frequently asked questions
What are the symptoms of Obesity?
High BMI, Large waist, Breathlessness on exertion, Joint pain, Snoring
What causes Obesity?
Calorie intake above needs, Inactivity
How is Obesity treated?
Diet, physical activity and behaviour change; medicines or bariatric surgery for selected patients.
How can Obesity be prevented?
Balanced diet, Daily activity, Adequate sleep
Medically reviewed by
Medical review pending
Last updated
9 October 2026
Sources
- World Health Organization fact sheets
- ICMR and MoHFW national guidelines
- National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC)
This information is for general awareness and does not replace advice from a qualified doctor. Do not start, stop or change any medicine without medical advice.