Taking on Punjab’s growing obesity crisis
Punjab, long celebrated for its rich culinary traditions and vibrant lifestyle, is now facing a silent, but serious health crisis. With nearly 40 per cent of adults classified as overweight or obese (ICMR 2025), lifestyle-related diseases are on the rise. At the forefront, for tackling this epidemic, is Dr Amit Bhambri, bariatric surgeon at Fortis Hospital, Ludhiana, whose work is helping patients reclaim their health and lives. In conversation with Manav Mander, he talks about tackling the obesity issue.
Q: Why are Punjabis gaining weight?
A: Diet is only part of the story. The bigger issue is lifestyle. Sedentary jobs have replaced physical labour, screen time has increased and regular physical activity has declined. When you combine this with high-calorie diets and festive indulgences, you get the perfect situation for obesity to thrive.
Q: Bariatric surgery is often misunderstood. What myths do you want to break?
A: Many people fear surgery, thinking it’s dangerous or that it leads to life-long weakness. That’s simply not true. Modern bariatric procedures are minimally invasive and as safe as routine laparoscopic surgeries like gall bladder removal. The benefits far outweigh the risks.
Q: What kind of impact does bariatric surgery have on patients?
A: It’s not just about losing weight, it’s about transforming lives. Diabetes remission occurs in up to 80-85% of patients. Hypertension improves in more than 50%. Sleep apnea resolves in nearly 75%. Fatty liver disease reverses in over 70%. We also see significant improvements in joint pain, acid reflux and fertility issues. One of my most challenging cases was operating on Punjab’s heaviest patient — 260 kg with a BMI of 80. It was a testament to surgical expertise and patient trust.
Q: With new weight-loss drugs available, how do they compare to surgery?
A: These medications can help select patients, but they must always be taken under strict medical supervision. Self-medication can cause complications and side-effects. For individuals with severe obesity (BMI =35), surgery remains the most effective and long-lasting solution.
Q: What sets your practice apart?
A: We follow a patient-first philosophy. Every patient is treated like family. From the first consultation to post-surgery recovery, we provide continuous support to ensure safe and sustainable results. At Fortis Ludhiana, this care is backed by world-class infrastructure and a multi-disciplinary team.
Q: What message do you want to give to the people of Punjab?
A: Obesity is not just a cosmetic issue, it is a medical condition. With the right guidance and treatment, it can be effectively overcome. The road ahead requires awareness, lifestyle changes and acceptance that medical interventions like bariatric surgery can be life-saving.
