Central Obesity Bigger Risk Than Overall Weight: Jitendra Singh
Union Minister flags hidden fat risk, releases major cardiology textbook
- Jitendra Singh warns central obesity is key health risk
- Even lean individuals may face high visceral fat danger
- Links abdominal fat to diabetes, heart disease and fatty liver
- Launches comprehensive textbook on obesity and lipid management
GG News Bureau
New Delhi, 30th March: Union Minister Jitendra Singh has warned that abdominal or central obesity poses a greater health risk than overall body weight, particularly among Indians where even lean individuals may carry dangerous levels of visceral fat.
Speaking at the release of a comprehensive cardiology textbook titled “Advances in Obesity and Lipid Management in CVD”, the Minister said central obesity significantly increases the risk of metabolic disorders such as diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular diseases and fatty liver.
Highlighting the “Indian phenotype,” he noted that abdominal fat often acts as an independent risk factor, even in individuals who do not appear obese, making early detection and targeted intervention critical.
Dr Singh said the rising burden of obesity and related diseases aligns with concerns raised by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who has emphasised lifestyle changes and awareness to tackle the issue.
He pointed to changing lifestyles, poor dietary habits and reduced physical activity as major contributors to increasing cases of type-2 diabetes and cardiac conditions, particularly among younger populations.
The Minister also cautioned against extreme or unscientific fitness practices, stressing the importance of balanced routines, proper rest and sustained lifestyle discipline.
The newly released textbook, edited by noted cardiologist H. K. Chopra, brings together insights from over 300 contributors and covers emerging therapies and advanced treatment approaches, including GLP-1 receptor agonists and innovative lipid-lowering strategies.
Describing obesity and dyslipidemia as major public health challenges, Dr Singh called for stronger awareness campaigns, early screening and preventive healthcare measures to mitigate long-term health risks.
He also flagged projections indicating a sharp rise in obesity prevalence in India by 2050, underlining the need for urgent and sustained interventions.
The publication is expected to serve as a comprehensive clinical resource, bridging research and practice while strengthening capacity in cardiovascular care.
