Obesity declared a growing global health crisis at LGH awareness seminar

LAHORE, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 4th Apr, 2026) Obesity has emerged as a rapidly escalating global crisis, posing serious medical challenges at both individual and national levels, said Principal Ameer-ud-Din Medical College, Prof Dr Farooq Afzal.

He expressed these views while addressing a special awareness lecture held at Lahore General Hospital (LGH) titled “Balance Life, Not Just Weight — Obesity Prevention and a Healthy Future” on Saturday.

Prof Farooq Afzal highlighted that obesity is the root cause of numerous diseases. He identified excessive consumption of oily foods, the increasing trend of fast food, and lack of physical activity as major factors driving the younger generation toward chronic health complications. He emphasized that educators, media, and civil society must play a key role in tackling this issue, adding that organizing regular training sessions in educational institutions is a collective social responsibility to protect youth health.

On the occasion, medical experts including Prof Khurram Saleem, Prof Shandana Tariq, Prof Amna Ahsan Cheema, and Dr Muhammad Maqsood stated that early symptoms such as rapid fatigue and shortness of breath often indicate the onset of serious conditions like diabetes, heart disease, and joint problems.

Participants were informed that Lahore General Hospital offers modern laparoscopic and bariatric surgery facilities for patients suffering from morbid obesity who are unable to lose weight through conventional methods. These procedures are considered effective in controlling body weight and reducing associated health risks.

Speaking to the media, Prof Farooq Afzal urged the public to prefer simple home-cooked meals over costly outdoor food to maintain better health and avoid increasing medical expenses. He reaffirmed the hospital administration’s commitment to continuing the awareness campaign, stating that obesity not only affects physical health but also impacts personality and appearance. He stressed that maintaining a healthy and energetic younger generation is essential, as they are the true asset of the nation.