Eli Lilly and Company (India) has entered into a partnership with Apollo Clinic, a prominent clinic network under Apollo Health and Lifestyle, and Apollo HealthCo. (Apollo 24|7), all part of the larger Apollo Group, to raise awareness about obesity and type 2 diabetes. This joint initiative will focus on boosting awareness and promoting appropriate healthcare solutions for obesity and type 2 diabetes nationwide. Obesity, a chronic relapsing disease, is a major risk factor for diabetes, is linked to over 200 health complications, including hypertension, dyslipidemia, coronary heart disease, and obstructive sleep apnea, to name a few (1,2). As of 2023, adult obesity prevalence in India stood at around 6.5 per cent, affecting nearly 100 million people (3).
Winselow Tucker, President and General Manager, India said, “Through this partnership, we aim to make a meaningful impact on how obesity and type 2 diabetes are understood and managed. Together, we’re working to improve awareness, support better outcomes, and empower individuals to take charge of their long-term health.”
“Our yearly ‘Health of Nation’ reports highlight a concerning trend: 49 per cent of women and 55 per cent of men under 40 are obese, a figure that drastically rises to 73 per cent of women and 65 per cent of men in the 40-55 age group (4). This alarming rise in obesity and physical inactivity, along with non-communicable diseases, remains undiagnosed and underscores the urgent need for action,” said Dr Sangita Reddy, Joint Managing Director, Apollo Hospitals Group.
Recognising obesity as a chronic and relapsing disease that significantly elevates the risk of diabetes and contributes to a wide range of health complications, including hypertension and heart disease, makes health education the need of the hour. Planned to roll out across more than 200 Apollo clinics and involving 300 medical practitioners, this collaboration aims to make a tangible difference in the lives of millions.
References:
- Waters H, Graf M. America’s Obesity Crisis: The Health and Economic Costs of Excess Weight. Milken Institute; 2018. Accessed February 20, 2024. https://milkeninstitute.org/sites/default/files/reports-pdf/Mi-Americas-Obesity-Crisis-WEB_2.pdf
- Wolk R, Shamsuzzaman AS, Somers VK. Obesity, sleep apnea, and hypertension. Hypertension. 2003;42(6):1067-1074. doi:10.1161/01.HYP.0000101686.98973.A3
- IQVIA analysis and projection based on National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5), India, 2019-20 and Data from Global Observatory (World Obesity)- https://data.worldobesity.org/country/india-95/#data_economic-impact
- Apollo Hospitals. Health of the Nation 2025 Report. https://www.apollohospitals.com/sites/default/files/2025-04/hon_apollo-hospital04042025-_e-draft.pdf
