Obesity is the most common illness among Indian youth. A recent study by India Today states that 70 percent of India’s urban population is obese. Especially, people in the age group of 24 to 39 years, who have been living in big metros or booming small towns, are at the risk of being obese. Having obesity puts people at risk for many other serious chronic diseases and increases the risk of severe illness from Covid-19.
A recent study published in the Diabetes, Obesity and Metabolism, a journal of pharmacology and therapeutics showed that people with a body mass index (BMI) of 35 kg/m2 or higher displayed a 3.5?fold increased risk of COVID?19–related death compared with those with a BMI of 25?34 kg/m2.
Speaking to News Karnataka Dr. Animesh Jain, Honorary Secretary of Indian Medical Association, Mangaluru said that the second wave of Corona Virus hit India hard. Many studies have revealed that having obesity increases the risk of severe illness from COVID – 19. Covid and obesity may be a dangerous combination as obesity could be the risk factor of some co-morbidities like diabetes. We have evidence now that those who have co-morbidities are liable to experience Covid more severely. Having obesity may increase the risk of hospitalisation due to a Covid-19 infection as obesity is linked to impaired immune function, he informed.
He advised that the youth has to follow a healthy lifestyle and keep themselves fit and active. He said, “With hygiene and sanitation people who consume a well-balanced diet have stronger immune systems and are less likely to be affected by Covid-19. To acquire the vitamins, minerals, dietary fibre, protein, and antioxidants your body needs, you should consume a variety of fresh and unprocessed foods everyday. Also along with that we must keep ourselves hydrated.”
“Physical activity and relaxation techniques can be valuable tools to help you remain calm and continue to protect your health during pandemic,” he added.
