New Delhi : Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh today addressed the launch of the book “The Weight Loss Revolution – Weight Loss Drugs and How to Use Them”, authored by eminent endocrinologist Dr Ambrish Mithal and Mr Shivam Vij. The event was attended by legendary actor Sharmila Tagore and media baron Shobhana Bhartia.
Dr Jitendra Singh, himself a renowned Diabetologist and Professor of Medicine, said the book arrives at a crucial time as India faces a surge in obesity and metabolic disorders. While promoting awareness, he cautioned against disinformation spread through unscientific diets and fad regimens.
Highlighting India’s growing health challenges, Dr Singh noted that the country, once known as the diabetes capital, is now emerging as the obesity capital, ranking third globally in childhood obesity. He emphasized the risks of central obesity, noting that abdominal fat poses greater threats to Indians than Western populations.
“Sometimes a simple inch tape around the waist is more meaningful than a BMI chart,” he remarked. Dr Singh stressed that lifestyle interventions, including regular yoga practice, could reduce type-2 diabetes incidence by up to 40%, according to Indian studies. He urged combining lifestyle changes, modern medicine, and traditional practices for holistic solutions.
Regarding emerging weight loss drugs like Ozempic and Mounjaro, Dr Singh advised caution, noting that clinical outcomes often take decades to manifest and quick conclusions may mislead the public.
The Minister called for prevention-focused strategies, especially with more than 70% of India’s population under 40. He emphasized that mass awareness is essential for tackling lifestyle diseases and ensuring India’s youth realize their full potential.
He lauded Dr Mithal for producing a timely and authoritative guide that can help both medical professionals and the public differentiate fact from misinformation in an era dominated by social media and quick fixes.
Dr Singh concluded that prevention, rather than just medication, must be the cornerstone of India’s fight against obesity and metabolic disorders, urging citizens to adopt scientifically validated lifestyle practices.
