Growth in IT sector has spurred growth in men's obesity

...Some of the common factors that have led to this epidemic are, consumption of a contemporary high-fat diet, consisting of meat, fast food, processed foods & energy dense foods. Simultaneously, industrialization and the growth of the technology sector have led to a decrease in physical activity. The stereotype way of life that has become so mechanical and sedentary has created a male couch potato generation, prompting a growth of obesity in men.

Yes of course, other risk factors like genetic predisposition, socio-cultural, economic, physiological, stress-related, and not to forget behavioral aspects have also contributed to a rise in obesity levels.

It's important to throw light on male behavioral aspect, as this factor is the only reversible factor unlike other risk factors... in the treatment of this illness.

Lifestyle changes basically constitute ones habits of smoking, drinking, dietary preferences, physical activity, stress management which all seem to be directly proportional to financial stability.  The rapid rise in disposable income for this group has led them down a path of sedentary lifestyle, right from the easy technologies available at home to the ones that drive them to their work place. Unfortunately the rise in disposable income levels has also included increased stress levels (peer/ boss pressure, longer hours), insufficient/ irregular sleep patterns.

But, the biggest factor by far is improper or unhealthy eating practices, which have directly manifested themselves into obesity.

The increased purchasing power has made life easier by putting everything at arms reach!! The smallest of gadgets like the television remote; the cell phone and the laptop have been the biggest contributors to male obesity.

These socio-economic pattern changes have brought about food preparation habits in families, which is quite evident from our food baskets and supermarket shelves now-a-days. This has led to a transition from more nutritious & conventional foods to more of refined convenience foods, including caffeine, nicotine and alcohol. Showing a significant link, between financial growth, lifestyle & behavioral patterns ultimately spurring obesity in men.

The awareness of this looming crisis needs to begin now. Families need to recognize the risk their bread earners face in the coming years.

All it takes is a return to sensible dietary habits and increased activity levels. No one is asking the men in the IT sector to run a marathon. Just a half hour walk a day, with well balanced diet at home is needed.

By. K. Saggi, Dietitian, NutritionVista.com