Abdominal or central obesity is a greater risk factor compared to overall obesity, particularly in the Indian context where even lean and thin-looking individuals often carry significant visceral fat, said Dr. Jitendra Singh, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology and Earth Sciences, on March 29, 2026.
Central obesity is a risk factor, independent of the obesity as such, he explained.
Releasing a comprehensive textbook of Cardiology titled “Advances in Obesity and Lipid Management in CVD” at a ceremony in the national capital, Dr. Singh said central obesity, even in apparently non-obese individuals, predisposes them to a wide spectrum of metabolic disorders including diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular diseases, fatty liver, lipid disorders etc.
The textbook, edited by noted cardiologist Dr. H K Chopra, brings together cutting-edge insights from more than 300 contributors across India and abroad.
Dr. Singh conveyed appreciation to Dr. H K Chopra and the editorial team for their academic leadership and contribution in bringing together global expertise into a single authoritative volume. Leading cardiologists and contributors including Dr. Viveka Kumar, Dr. Praveen Chandra, Dr. J.P.S. Sawhney, Dr. Mona Bhatia, Dr. Anu Grover, Shrikant Bhatia and Anand Kumar were present on the occasion.