Obesity: A silent epidemic that demands urgent action

OBESITY is fast becoming one of the biggest public health challenges in the state. With changing lifestyles, calorie-rich diets and low physical activity, more Punjabis are tipping the scale toward becoming overweight and obese. The consequences go far beyond appearance—life-threatening conditions like diabetes, hypertension, sleep apnoea and heart disease are on the rise. To understand the gravity of the situation and explore modern treatment options from bariatric surgery to breakthrough medications like Ozempic and Wegovy. Dr Amit Bhambri, a bariatric surgeon, talks to Manav Mander on obesity, its health risks, modern surgical and medical solutions.

 How serious is the obesity problem in Punjab?

Extremely serious! the state has one of the highest obesity rates in India, especially in urban areas. Nearly 40 per cent of urban Punjabis are overweight or obese, and the problem is now affecting children, too. Sedentary jobs, lack of exercise and junk food have created a dangerous health trend.

 Why is obesity rising so rapidly here as compared to other states?

Lifestyle and cultural habits play a big role. Punjabi food is rich in fats and sugars and eating large portions is often seen as a sign of hospitality and prosperity. Add late-night eating, stress and reduced physical activity, and the result is an obesity epidemic.

 Is obesity only about looks or a health threat?

It’s a major health risk. It is a life-threatening disease and, not just a cosmetic issue. Obesity increases the chances of type II diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, sleep apnoea, fatty liver, joint pains, infertility and even certain cancers.

 What is bariatric surgery and how does it help?

Bariatric surgery is a proven treatment to treat obesity. It works by reducing stomach size and bypassing a portion of intestine which changes the gut hormones to control hunger. Common procedures are sleeve gastrectomy and gastric bypass. Patients usually lose 60–80 per cent of excess weight in 12–18 months, and conditions like diabetes often improve dramatically.

 What health conditions improve the most after bariatric surgery?

Patients with type II diabetes show the most dramatic improvement—sometimes within days of surgery, even before major weight loss occurs. Hypertension, cardiac problems, sleep apnoea and fatty liver disease, joint pains also improve significantly. Many patients reduce or stop medications after surgery.

 How soon can a patient return to normal life after bariatric surgery?

The surgery is done laparoscopically, with minimal 5-10 mm sized incisions and no sutures are placed over the abdomen, so it’s a painless procedure. Most patients go home within two days and return to routine activities in a week. There’s no prolonged bed rest; patients start walking and drinking liquids within hours of surgery.

 Is bariatric surgery safe and who should consider it?

Yes, it’s very safe, with risks similar to common surgeries like gallbladder removal. It’s recommended for people with BMI above 37.5, or above 32.5 with conditions like diabetes or hypertension.

 Are there myths about bariatric surgery you want to clear?

Many! Some think the stomach is “removed completely” or that patients can’t eat normal food again. In reality, only a part of the stomach is removed or bypassed, and patients can eat all food groups—but in smaller portions. Another myth is that surgery is unsafe. In experienced hands, it’s one of the safest elective surgeries. My team created a record by operating the heaviest-known patient in the history of the state, weighing 256 kg. After surgery the patient has already lost 30 kg in three weeks and is free from diabetes and sleep apnoea.

 Recently, drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy were in the news. Are they game changers?

Yes, these medications have created a lot of buzz. Both are GLP-1 receptor agonists—they mimic a natural gut hormone that reduces appetite and slows digestion. Patients can lose 10–15 per cent of their body weight with these drugs. However, these are not magic pills. They need long-term use, can be expensive and may have side effects like nausea, digestive issue, and rarely even blindness. These are best for mild to moderate obesity, or for those not ready for surgery. These should be taken under the supervision of a doctor only.

 Can these new weight-loss drugs replace surgery in the future?

They are promising, but they cannot match the long-term results of surgery for severe obesity. Surgery changes gut hormones permanently and resets metabolism. Medications only work while you take them; and, on stopping the drugs, most people regain weight as their appetite starts increasing.

How important is lifestyle changes after surgery or medication?

It is absolutely essential. Surgery and drugs are tools, not magic. Patients must adopt healthy eating habits and regular physical activity for lasting life-long success.