ROAD Campaign Advocates for Recognition of Obesity as a Chronic Disease

Mumbai : Over 40 Harley Davidson bikers rode alongside healthcare professionals through Mumbai today to raise awareness about obesity as a serious medical condition requiring urgent policy intervention.

The “Recognizing Obesity as a Disease” (ROAD) campaign, organized by the United Diabetes Forum in association with Harley Owners Group and supported by Novo Nordisk, aims to shift public perception of obesity from a personal choice to a complex medical condition.

Dr. Rajiv Kovil, renowned diabetologist from Mumbai, emphasized the critical nature of this health crisis: “Obesity is a growing public health emergency in India that continues to be misunderstood and stigmatized. Despite being the root cause of over 250 medical conditions including diabetes, heart disease, and cancer, India has still not officially recognized obesity as a chronic disease.”

The unique collaboration between bikers and healthcare professionals creates a powerful symbolic narrative – bikers representing strength and protection, while doctors symbolize scientific knowledge and care. Together, they advocate for health literacy and push for formal recognition of obesity as a disease in India.

The campaign’s key objectives include driving policymaker attention toward obesity as a medical condition, increasing health literacy, encouraging preventive healthcare, and promoting national recognition of obesity as a chronic disease. This innovative approach blends advocacy, health education, and public engagement to deliver a strong message: obesity is a disease, not a choice, and requires comprehensive medical attention and societal support.