Rising Obesity Rates: New Treatments and Concerns

The obesity epidemic is escalating globally, with India facing significant challenges. Experts predict that obesity rates could exceed 50% in the coming decades, particularly affecting children. Dr. Vyankatesh Shivane discusses the evolution of weight management strategies, highlighting the emergence of GLP-1 receptor agonists as effective treatments. These medications have shown promising results in weight loss and heart health. However, patients often have concerns regarding side effects, duration of use, and potential risks. This article addresses common questions and provides insights into the importance of proper medical evaluation before starting treatment.

By Narendra Chaudhary Mar 9, 2026, 10:10 IST

The Growing Obesity Crisis

The global surge in obesity is becoming increasingly alarming, with India facing similar challenges. Experts predict that within the next 20 years, obesity rates worldwide could exceed 50%, impacting individuals of all ages. Particularly concerning is the rise in childhood obesity in India, which heightens the risk of early onset diabetes, heart disease, and various metabolic disorders.

Evolving Approaches to Weight Management

Dr. Vyankatesh Shivane, a Consultant Diabetologist and Metabolic Physician at Jaslok Hospital & Research Center, notes that strategies for managing weight have significantly changed over the last decade. Previously, individuals primarily relied on diet, exercise, and food restrictions, which typically resulted in a modest weight loss of only 4-6%. For those with severe obesity, bariatric surgery is an option, often leading to a weight reduction of over 25%.

Innovative Weight Loss Medications

Dr. Shivane highlights a notable gap between the limited weight loss achieved through lifestyle changes and the substantial results from surgical interventions. In recent years, a new class of medications known as GLP-1 receptor agonists has revolutionized obesity treatment. These include Liraglutide, Semaglutide, Exenatide, and Lixisenatide. Well-known brands like Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro have shown weight loss results ranging from 10% to 22% in individuals with obesity, regardless of their diabetes status. These medications function by controlling appetite and delaying stomach emptying, which helps individuals feel satiated longer and reduces overall calorie consumption.

Frequently Asked Questions About Weight Loss Medications

As the use of these medications becomes more widespread, patients often have numerous questions before beginning treatment. Here are some common inquiries:

What are the side effects?

Common side effects may include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, constipation, diarrhea, and decreased appetite. These symptoms are usually experienced in the initial months of treatment and may necessitate temporary medications for nausea or acidity. Dr. Shivane mentions that many patients require additional medications to manage these side effects during the early stages.

Do these medications pose risks to heart, liver, or kidneys?

Research indicates that these medications can actually improve heart health, showing a reduced risk of heart attacks, strokes, and hospitalizations due to heart failure in certain patients.

How long should one continue taking the medication?

According to Dr. Shivane, the effectiveness of GLP-1 medications is time-sensitive, with better outcomes associated with prolonged use. It is generally advised to continue treatment for at least one year to maximize benefits.

Will weight return after discontinuation?

Clinical studies suggest that individuals may regain 6-7% of their body weight within months after stopping the medication. To maintain weight loss, a strict diet and exercise regimen is essential post-treatment.

Is there a risk of cancer?

Current research has not indicated an increased risk of cancer; however, these medications should be avoided by individuals with a history of medullary thyroid cancer.

Can the medications be used for short periods?

Short-term use of 3 to 4 months is generally ineffective, as significant results are typically observed after six months or more.

Are online prescriptions safe?

Medical professionals strongly advise against initiating weight-loss injections without a thorough medical assessment. Dr. Shivane emphasizes the need for a comprehensive clinical and laboratory evaluation before starting this therapy.

Are there any eye-related risks?

There have been rare reports of Non-Ischemic Optic Neuropathy (NION), and ongoing research is being conducted. Eye examinations are recommended for obese patients with diabetes prior to commencing treatment.

(Insights provided by Dr. Vyankatesh Shivane, Consultant Diabetologist and Metabolic Physician at Jaslok Hospital & Research Center)