MUMBAI, 19th APRIL, 2023 (GPN):  Obesity and Bariatric Physicians across the state recently came together and formed their body titled ‘ Association of Bariatric Physicians International (BAPI).  In the recently held 1st BAPI Symposium & Installation Ceremony at Apollo Hospital Auditorium in Navi Mumbai. A day-long Symposium on Obesity – India Perspectives and Challenges saw the renowned Obesity and Bariatric Physicians express their views and took a pledge to jointly fight against obesity. Chief Guest Mr Rajesh Narvekar – NMMC Commissioner graced the occasion and also pledged to join this crusade against Obesity.  

Obesity is a condition where there is an excess accumulation of body fat which poses a risk to the health of the individual in many ways. It can affect children and adults. According to World Health Organization (WHO), being overweight and obese together form the fifth leading cause of death. Obesity is causing approximately 2.8 million adult deaths annually in the world. This calls for Obesity to be taken as a chronic disease and needs to be treated seriously, however, in India, the acceptance from both the medical fraternity and policymakers is still impending. The prevalence of obesity is growing in epidemic proportions, more so in developing countries like India.

BAPI is India’s first and unique association comprising solely of physicians interested in and practicing obesity. The prime objectives of this forum are to 1. create awareness about obesity in all spheres – medical, social, and political. 2. Conduct academic programs for physicians to help treat obesity in the real world. 3. Facilitate courses and accreditation programs, and fellowships to empower physicians to practice obesity. 4. Undertake community, country, and hospital-based research thereby generating India-specific data to publish extensively in the field of obesity 5. Advocate and address the risk factors of obesity.

While addressing the participating members on the occasion Dr Nitin Patankar – President of BAPI said” The current scenario of obesity management in India is far from satisfactory and more often than not, is administered in a non-scientific, non-evidence-based manner, often by persons who are not healthcare professionals. This needs to change. More healthcare professionals need to take up obesity treatment, albeit in a small way at least, to help persons living with obesity manage their condition in the most optimal way possible”. He added further “Obesity Medicine is a fast-growing field, with new research and therapeutics being added on a daily basis. BAPI aims to keep its members abreast of the latest, through education programs, CMEs, and courses”.

Dr Vimal Pahuja – Vice President of BAPI said “We observed that there is a lack of awareness amongst the public and even Doctors about Obesity and treatment is generally ignored as it is not perceived as a disease. There was a need for a proper forum to dissipate the right scientific information to both the public as well as Doctors alike and prevent false information and myths about Obesity. BAPI has united like-minded Physicians willing to contribute to the case and take obesity practice to a new summit.

The Founding Executive Committee of BAPI consists of renowned practicing Obesity and Bariatric Physicians, they are Dr Nitin Patankar (President), Dr Vimal Pahuja (Vice President), Dr S. M. Bandukwala (Advisor), Dr Sanjay Khare (Secretary), Dr Ketan Pakhale (Joint Secretary), Dr Sanjay Godbale (Treasurer), Dr Rajesh Patil (Joint Treasurer), Dr Neeta Deshpande (Scientific Chair) and Dr Nitin Kapoor (Academic Research).   

To know more about BAPI visit : www.bapiobesity.com