Obesity and excess weight are becoming increasingly common across Assam, with data from the National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5) showing that 15% women aged 15-49 years are obese, while 16% men are overweight or obese. The numbers have risen steadily over the years, mirroring a broader trend seen across India.
Further, a 2024 study on obesity and physical inactivity in Assam found higher rates of overweight and obesity in urban areas than rural areas, reflecting changing lifestyles and dietary patterns in the state.
Doctors at Gurugram-based Medanta– The Medicity — ranked India’s best hospital by Newsweek in 2026 — said the rise is being driven by a combination of factors, including increasingly sedentary lifestyles, reduced physical activity, poor dietary habits, stress, and inadequate sleep. They also urged people to view obesity as a medical condition that can be treated, pointing out that excess weight is known to increase the risk of type 2 diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, fatty liver disease, sleep disorders, and several other chronic health conditions.
Emphasizing that timely medical intervention can help reduce the risk of serious diseases, Dr. Pawan Rawal, Senior Director, Gastroenterology at Medanta Gurugram said, “Many people still believe that obesity is simply a result of eating too much or exercising too little. In reality, it is a complex medical condition influenced by genetics, hormones, metabolism, lifestyle, and environmental factors. The encouraging news is that obesity can be managed effectively, and we now have more treatment options than ever before.”
Dr. Rawal said healthy eating, regular physical activity, adequate sleep, and stress management remain the foundation of weight management.
Speaking about newer anti-obesity medicines that help regulate appetite, reduce hunger, and increase the feeling of fullness, Dr. Rawal said when prescribed appropriately and combined with lifestyle modifications, these medicines can help eligible patients achieve meaningful and sustained weight loss. He said, “Even a modest reduction in body weight can lead to significant health benefits, including better blood sugar control, lower blood pressure, improved mobility, and a better quality of life.”
However, Dr. Rawal also cautioned against self-medication or relying on social media trends for weight loss advice, encouraging people struggling with weight-related issues to seek professional advice early. He emphasized that timely support and personalised treatment plans can make a lasting difference, stating, “The focus should be on long-term health, not quick fixes.”
Residents of Dibrugarh and nearby areas can consult Dr. Pawan Rawal on 20th June 2026 at Dibrugarh Medicity, Circuit House Road, AMC Rd, Dibrugarh, Assam 786001. For appointments: +91 7086293152.
Medanta has launched a dedicated helpline — +91 8904395588 — to improve access to care across the North East, with support in Assamese, Bengali, Nagamese, English and Hindi. Available from 8 am to 8 pm, it assists with doctor selection and appointments.
