Obesity Is the Real “Pre-Diabetes”; Do Not Take It Lightly: Dr. Rajesh Agrawal

Indore | The rapid rise in obesity in India over the past three decades is a serious warning bell for the future. “Diabetes is no longer a disease of the affluent alone; due to environmental changes, it is spreading rapidly among the poor and the working class as well. If society does not become aware, this disease will devastate families and the nation’s economy.” According to Indore-based renowned specialist Dr. Rajesh Agrawal, obesity should no longer be seen merely as weight gain, but recognized as a ‘pre-pre-diabetes’ stage, demanding immediate attention.

The Obesity Situation in India Is Explosive

Speaking as the chief guest at the state conference on “Emerging Trends in Diabetes,” noted diabetes, obesity, and hormone specialist Dr. Rajesh Agrawal shared startling facts:

  • Twenty-fold increase: Over the past 30 years, cases of obesity in India have increased 20 times, whereas in developed countries the rise has been only 5–6 times.

  • Figure of 600 million: Nearly 600 million people in the country suffer from obesity and abdominal fat (central obesity), placing them directly on the threshold of diabetes.

  • Genetic impact: The growing burden of calorie-dense and inexpensive junk food on our genes is the primary root cause of this problem.

The Right Time for Diabetes Reversal

Dr. Agrawal emphasized that the pre-diabetes stage should actually be understood as the “obesity stage.” If proper diet and lifestyle changes are adopted at this level, diabetes can not only be prevented but completely reversed.

Call for Awareness and Recognition

Dr. Agrawal stressed the need for large-scale health education campaigns at the school and community levels to protect the country from major economic losses. At the conclusion of the program, conference secretary Dr. Vrinda Bhardwaj and Dr. Ankit Seth presented Dr. Agrawal with a memento and a certificate of appreciation, honoring his outstanding contributions.

Pre-Diabetes