Eli Lilly and Company (India) has entered into a partnership with Apollo Clinic, a prominent clinic network under Apollo Health and Lifestyle, and Apollo HealthCo. (Apollo 24|7), all part of larger Apollo Group, to raise awareness about obesity and type 2 diabetes. This joint initiative will focus on boosting awareness and promoting appropriate healthcare solutions for obesity and type 2 diabetes nationwide. Obesity, a chronic relapsing disease, is a major risk factor for diabetes, is linked to over 200 health complications, including hypertension, dyslipidemia, coronary heart disease, and obstructive sleep apnea to name a few. As of 2023, adult obesity prevalence in India stood at around 6.5%, affecting nearly 100 million people.
“This partnership reflects our shared commitment to support people living with obesity and type 2 diabetes by increasing awareness around prevention and evidence-based management,” said Winselow Tucker, president and general manager, India. “Through this partnership, we aim to make a meaningful impact on how obesity and type 2 diabetes are understood and managed. Together, we’re working to improve awareness, support better outcomes, and empower individuals to take charge of their long-term health.”
“This collaboration marks the beginning of a long-term commitment to transforming obesity and type 2 diabetes care in India. Our yearly “Health of Nation” reports highlight a concerning trend: 49% of women and 55% of men under 40 are obese, a figure that drastically rises to 73% of women and 65% of men in the 40-55 age group. This alarming rise in obesity and physical inactivity, along with non-communicable diseases, remains undiagnosed and underscores the urgent need for action,” said Dr. Sangita Reddy, joint managing director Apollo Hospitals Group. “With significant solutions in the scientific realm for obesity management in many of our hospitals, we are now committed to creating Centres of Excellence in obesity management. Such partnerships aim to develop a scalable & impactful model that can drive future healthcare initiatives and significantly improve patient outcomes across the country,” she added.
Recognizing obesity as a chronic and relapsing disease that significantly elevates the risk of diabetes and contributes to a wide range of health complications, including hypertension and heart disease, makes health education the need of the hour. Planned to roll out across more than 200 Apollo clinics and involving 300 medical practitioners, this collaboration aims to make a tangible difference in the lives of millions.
