Call for integration of multidisciplinary approaches, including endocrinology, bariatrics, and psychology, in the management of obesity
First Int. Obesity Conference by South Asian Obesity Forum in Nepal
By Dr. Musarrat Riaz
Kathmandu, Nepal: The First International Obesity Conference, organized by the South Asian Obesity Forum (SOF), took place in Kathmandu, Nepal, in February bringing together leading experts from South Asia and beyond. The event served as a crucial platform for discussing the rising burden of obesity in the region and its multifaceted implications on health. With esteemed speakers from India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Mauritius, UAE and Canada, led by its President, Dr Dina Shrestha, the conference covered a wide range of topics, from the epidemiology of obesity to its management and complications.
Dr. Dina Shrestha President of
the South Asian Obesity Forum.
Meet the Press: Setting the Stage
Prior to the official proceedings, a “Meet the Press” session was held, where organizers and key speakers interacted with media representatives. They highlighted the significance of obesity as a growing health crisis in South Asia, emphasizing the need for collaborative efforts in research, policy-making, and clinical practice. Journalists engaged in discussions on the socioeconomic factors fueling obesity, the role of urbanization, and the necessity for region-specific interventions. The conference also aimed to galvanize leadership and push for a unified call to action to accelerate solutions for obesity management.
South Asia Obesity forum (SOF) Executive Committee Members addressing a pess conference Press Conference during the conference held at Nepal recently.
Founded in 2024, the SOF brings together experts from south Asia under the tagline “United Against Obesity.” The forum has already published three editions of The Asian Journal of Obesity (Official journal of SOF) and issued a region-specific declaration.
The conference featured a series of insightful sessions addressing key aspects of obesity management. Experts delved into the latest research, evidence-based strategies, and practical approaches to tackling obesity in South Asia.
Dr. Dina Shrestha, President SOF in her welcome address highlighted the aims & objectives of SOF illustrating the alarming rise in obesity prevalence across the region. She commenced with an overview of obesity as a pressing health issue in South Asia underscoring the urgent need for preventive strategies.
Mr. Ashok Bhaseen President Thyroid Federation International from Canada discussed in detail about the impact of thyroid disorders in obesity and ways to tackle them. He emphasized the importance of patient education and timely management.
Dr Bhoj Raj Adhikari, Dr R K Prasad and Dr Hamid Ashraf Members of the Experts Panel speaking at the SOF conference held in Nepal recently.
Prof. Md Faruque Pathan from Bangladesh provided epidemiological data, examined genetic, environmental, and behavioral factors contributing to obesity, while Dr. Rucha Mehta focused on medical vs bariatric surgery options for obesity. Dr. Nitin Kapoor also from India reviewed the efficacy and safety of anti-obesity medications, behavioral therapy, and lifestyle modifications. Discussions also covered the integration of multidisciplinary approaches, including endocrinology, bariatrics, and psychology, in the management of obesity.
Highlighting cutting-edge developments, this session explored the latest scientific advancements in obesity treatment. Topics included the role of gut microbiota in weight regulation, novel drug therapies, and the impact of precision medicine in obesity management. The need for further studies tailored to the South Asian population was duly emphasized.
Dr. Musarrat Riaz from Pakistan in her presentation discussed the Intricate Relationship between thyroid and obesity. Obesity and thyroid dysfunction share a complex interplay, which was thoroughly examined in this session. She discussed how hypothyroidism contributes to weight gain and metabolic disturbances, while also exploring the bidirectional relationship between obesity and thyroid hormone regulation. The session underscored the importance of proper thyroid screening in obese individuals.
Group photograph of South Asia Obesity Forum (SOF)
Executive Committee Members.
With the rising prevalence of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in obese individuals, Prof. Prasad Katulanda from Sri Lanka, shed light on the metabolic consequences of obesity on liver function. He elaborated on the pathophysiology of NAFLD, its progression to cirrhosis, and the role of weight management in preventing liver-related complications.
A thought-provoking session focused on the impact of obesity on sexual health, discussing hormonal imbalances, infertility, and psychosocial aspects was covered by Dr Shahjada Saleem from Bangladesh. He emphasized the need for healthcare professionals to address these concerns in clinical practice, ensuring a holistic approach to obesity management.
Dietary interventions remain a cornerstone of obesity management, and this session provided a deep insight into evidence-based nutritional strategies. Prof. Ranil Jayawardena explored the impact of macronutrient composition, meal timing, and personalized dietary approaches in obesity treatment. The role of cultural dietary patterns in South Asia was also highlighted, advocating for locally adaptable solutions.
Obesity in pregnancy and feto maternal outcomes were covered by Dr Faria Afsana from Bangladesh and Dr Sanjay Kalra from India discussed the post prandial hyperglycemia in context to South Asian population and its impact on overall hyperglycemia management.
Dr. Sidra Lodhi from Pakistan, Dr Payal Buckoreelall from Mauritius, Dr Aswin from UAE, Dr Jyoti , Dr Binit Baidya and Dr Abha Shrestha from Nepal also made presentations during the conference.
The conference concluded with a panel discussion, where experts summarized the key insights gained over the sessions. Several crucial recommendations emerged which are as under:
• Strengthening public health policies to curb the obesity epidemic.
• Encouraging interdisciplinary collaboration in obesity research and management.
• Promoting awareness and lifestyle modifications at the community level.
• Addressing obesity-related complications with a comprehensive approach.
• Integrating obesity education into medical curricula to improve clinical outcomes.
The conference laid the groundwork for future initiatives aimed at reducing the burden of obesity and improving health outcomes in South Asia by fostering regional collaboration and knowledge exchange. With commitments from leading experts and policymakers, the event set the stage for continued advancements in obesity prevention and treatment.
