Abstract

Excess weight, body-mass index (BMI), and obesity, have become global epidemics. According to the experts, if post-2000 trends continue, the probability of meeting the global obesity target is virtually zero [1]. Several recent studies have assessed the national, regional and global, prevalence of excess weight and obesity [2-10]. Influence of modifiable risk factors, such as blood pressure, serum cholesterol, fasting glucose, and body mass index on cardiovascular disease (CVD) is well established. Each metabolic risk factor is robustly related to the progress of CVD. Global estimates indicate, considerable potential for CVD reduction, with population-wide lowering of BMI [2]. A bilateral study, between the researchers at the Madras Diabetes Research Foundation (MDRF), and the staff at the University of Minnesota, found that compared to the US, the waist-weight ratio was significantly higher, in men and women from India [3].