Message From President
The South Asian Obesity Forum was founded on a simple yet powerful principle: United Against Obesity. South Asia is home to nearly a quarter of the world's population, and yet we face a disproportionate burden of
The South Asian Obesity Forum was founded on a simple yet powerful principle: United Against Obesity. South Asia is home to nearly a quarter of the world's population, and yet we face a disproportionate burden of obesity-related non-communicable diseases. Our region is uniquely vulnerable-genetically, metabolically, culturally, and socioeconomically. Obesity in South Asians is not merely a matter of excess weight; it is a complex, multisystem disease that manifests early, progresses rapidly, and contributes significantly to diabetes, cardiovascular disease, fatty liver disease, reproductive disorders, and chronic kidney disease.
What makes this challenge even more urgent is the silent nature of the epidemic. Normal or modest body mass indices often mask high visceral adiposity and metabolic risk in South Asian populations. As clinicians, researchers, public health professionals, and advocates, we have a responsibility to move beyond conventional frameworks and adopt region-specific, evidence-based approaches.The South Asian Obesity Forum brings together experts from across our region to foster collaboration, promote research, harmonize clinical practice, and advocate for policies that reflect the realities of our populations. We believe strongly that solutions developed in isolation are no longer sufficient. Our strength lies in collaboration-across borders, across disciplines, and across sectors.
Over the coming years, SOF is committed to advancing four key priorities.
First, strengthening regional research to generate high-quality South Asian data that can inform guidelines and policy.
Second, capacity building through education and training of healthcare professionals, ensuring that obesity is recognized and managed as a chronic disease.
Third, advocacy and partnerships with governments, international organizations, and patient groups to integrate obesity prevention and management into national health agendas.And finally, public engagement-to reduce stigma, increase awareness, and empower individuals and communities to take charge of their health.
We are proud to collaborate with global and regional partners who share our vision, and we look forward to deepening these relationships in the spirit of mutual learning and shared impact.Obesity is not a failure of willpower, nor is it an individual problem alone. It is a societal challenge that demands scientific rigor, compassionate care, and coordinated action. The work we do today will shape the health of future generations in South Asia.Together, through collaboration, innovation, and commitment, we can change the narrative of obesity in our region.
Dina Shrestha
President
South Asia Obesity Forum
