Are Goans slipping into Obesity?

There is a common perception that Goans are athletic and fit and their passion for sports is fierce. Well, the latter is mostly true, But of late, some may notice the youth of Goa tripping on the fitness scale and level of athleticism.

Health issues in Goa

Economic Survey 2015-16 Statistics in the Chapter on Health of Goa suggests that Goa is headed for a public health crisis. Further, the National Family Health Survey - 4 (NFHS-4), conducted in 2015-16 stated that Goa has an obesity problem. The proportion of women who are overweight or obese has increased from 20.2% (2005-06) to 33.5%. The proportion of overweight or obese men increased from 15.5 (2005-06) to 32.6 in 2015-16.

According to a study, the astounding facts are mentioned below:

• Being overweight increases the risk of high blood pressure.
• In Goa, 8.5% of women and 13.2% of men suffer from hypertension.
• 14.1% of women and 19.6% of men have high blood sugar.
• Diabetes and hypertension are silent killers and being overweight increases the probability of these two diseases.

These indicators have shaped the status ‘emerging public health crisis’ stated in Goa’s Economic survey. The only way to reduce the risk, is by addressed the issue on an urgent footing. The consensus view is that changing diets, consumption of processed foods and sedentary lifestyles are contributing to the problem of obesity, diabetes and hypertension.

Unless drastic measures are taken, Goans have a bleak future. This change has to start with you!

Photo Credit: Milind Soman Fitness