India’s obesity war: Will injections replace surgery?

India is facing a growing obesity crisis, with over 80 million citizens classified as obese. Among urban populations, nearly 70% are either obese or overweight. This has triggered a surge in bariatric surgeries, tripling in the past decade to nearly 75,000 procedures by 2024. However, the landscape is now rapidly shifting with the introduction of new weight-loss medications like Mounjaro from Eli Lilly and Wegovy by Novo Nordisk.

Needles Over Knives?

These injectable drugs, classified as GLP-1 receptor agonists, offer weight reductions of 15–20%, making them an attractive non-surgical option for those in the BMI range of 30–35 or even 25–30. While bariatric surgery still offers superior weight loss—typically 70–80%—it comes with higher risk, upfront costs, and longer recovery. Drugs like Mounjaro provide a less invasive path, and early evidence from countries like the US shows a significant drop—up to 26%—in surgical demand due to drug interest.

Read more: Warren Buffett steps down: the Oracle of Omaha’s legacy explained

The Cost Dilemma

Despite their appeal, weight-loss medications remain out of reach for many Indians. A six-month Mounjaro treatment can cost around ₹1 lakh, or ₹14,000–₹25,000 per month. These treatments are not covered by most insurance plans in India, unlike in countries like the UK. In contrast, bariatric surgery, though expensive upfront at ₹2–5 lakh, may prove more economical in the long run, especially for patients who require prolonged drug use.

Caution Amid the Hype

Doctors warn that while weight-loss drugs are a powerful tool, they are not a miracle cure. Some patients are turning to these medications without proper medical supervision—often for cosmetic reasons—leading to potential misuse. These drugs require strict medical oversight and should only be part of a broader treatment strategy that includes lifestyle changes and public health support.

Read more: Universal Studios is coming to India, and it's bigger than you think!

The Way Forward

India's fight against obesity will require more than just injections or surgeries. While pharmacological advances are promising, sustainable solutions will come from improving food habits, raising awareness, and reshaping urban lifestyles. Drugs can offer a lifeline—but they must be seen as part of a long-term, culturally grounded health movement.