Revised definition of obesity in Asian Indians living in India

The prevailing guidelines for obesity in Asian Indians, published in 2009, relied solely on body mass index (BMI) criteria. Recognizing the limitations of BMI in accurately diagnosing obesity and the emergence of new research revealing the association between generalized and abdominal adiposity in Asian Indians and early-onset co-morbid diseases, a comprehensive redefinition was needed.

In a Delphi process focused on obesity in India, experts were invited via email to participate in five rounds. The survey questions were administered through Google Form to gather insights from the selected experts.

In Stage 1 Obesity, individuals exhibit increased adiposity (BMI>23 kg/m²) without discernible effects on organ functions or daily activities. Stage 2 Obesity denotes a more advanced state characterized by heightened adiposity (generalized and abdominal), impacting both physical and organ functions, resulting in functional limitations during day-to-day activities, and contributing to co-morbid diseases. The criteria for Stage 2 Obesity include a mandatory BMI exceeding 23 kg/m² and at least one of the following: excess waist circumference or waist-to-height ratio. Additionally, the presence of one or more symptoms indicative of limitations in daily activities or one or more obesity-related comorbid conditions/diseases are needed to support the stage 2 obesity.

This refined framework seeks to enhance precision in identifying obesity and its associated health risks among Asian Indians living in India, and facilitation of rational management, and aligns with worldwide initiative of new definition of obesity.