Hyderabad Obesity Crisis: 81.3% Overweight

Hyderabad is grappling with a rapidly escalating obesity burden, as indicated by the Health of the Nation (HoN) Report 2026. A staggering 81.3% of the 3.75 million individuals screened in the city were found to be overweight, marking an significant 18% increase from the previous year's 63%.

Nationally, Hyderabad ranks second only to Mumbai in obesity rates, with Delhi showing an identical figure. Other major metros like Kolkata, Bengaluru, and Chennai reported comparatively lower percentages. Beyond traditional factors such as sedentary habits and high junk food consumption, experts are highlighting excessive smartphone use as a major contributor.

This surge in obesity is particularly concerning given Hyderabad's prior designation as the 'diabetes capital of India.' Doctors warn that unchecked obesity could exacerbate lifestyle diseases, leading to earlier onset of complications and increased burdens on healthcare systems and families.

Further contributing factors identified by health professionals include increased screen time, reduced physical activity, prolonged sitting, and the misuse of steroids for weight gain without proper medical evaluation. Concerns are also mounting over rising childhood obesity, leading to conditions like non-alcoholic fatty liver disease in young children.