Mumbai : Urban India is facing a growing metabolic health crisis, with an estimated 73 million people aged 15 and above classified as overweight or obese, according to Kantar India’s GLP-1 Opportunity Index Report released ahead of World Obesity Day.
The report estimates that about 20% of urban Indians in this age group are overweight or obese. It also states that 101 million Indians are living with diabetes, with another 136 million at pre-diabetic risk. Urban diabetes prevalence stands at 14.2%, compared with 8.3% in rural areas.
Despite 85% of overweight individuals—around 62 million people—actively trying to lose weight, awareness of GLP-1 medications remains limited. The report found that only 4.99% of urban Indians are aware of GLP-1 treatments. However, among diabetics who are aware of the therapies, 49.2% said they are likely to use them, and 44.1% expressed a preference for weekly dosage formats.
The findings show that affluent households classified as NCCS A account for 46% of overweight individuals, though they represent 40% of the urban population. Gen X consumers contribute 40% of the overweight population and 73% of urban diabetes cases.
Regionally, South India accounts for 36% of the overweight population and 43% of urban diabetes cases, with Kerala and Telangana showing higher penetration levels.
Puneet Avasthi, Director, Specialist Businesses, South Asia at Kantar, said awareness remains low despite strong adoption intent among informed consumers, highlighting a communication gap.
The study is based on a nationally representative survey of more than 60,000 consumers aged 15 and above across India.
