IJCP Group, in association with the South Asian Obesity Forum (SOF), successfully concluded OBESITAS 2026, a scientific conference dedicated to addressing obesity as a growing clinical and public health challenge in India.

The conference gathered more than 500 doctors, 150 nutritionists, and international experts to discuss the increasing burden of obesity and its close association with diabetes, cardiovascular disease, fatty liver disease, hormonal disorders, and other non-communicable diseases.

Held under the theme “Obesity Awareness, Advocacy, Action,” the event was led by an organising committee comprising Sanjay Kalra, Saptarshi Bhattacharya, Nitin Kapoor, Nishant Raizada, and Dina Shrestha.

The scientific programme focused on evolving obesity management approaches, including GLP-1 receptor agonists, tirzepatide, pharmacosimilars, medical nutrition therapy, and technology-enabled care. Sessions also explored topics such as diabesity, sarcopenic obesity, hepatic health, women’s health, and integrated metabolic care.

With the expiry of semaglutide patents and the launch of multiple branded generics by Indian pharmaceutical companies, the conference emphasized the need for evidence-based and responsible adoption of newer obesity therapies in clinical practice.

Speaking at the conference, Dr. Sanjay Kalra said, “We are at a tipping point. Obesity is now driving a large part of India’s diabetes, heart disease, and metabolic burden, yet it continues to be under-treated. The real shift is moving from advice to active, structured treatment using the full range of clinical tools now available.”

Dr. Saptarshi Bhattacharya added, “What we are seeing today is a transition in care. Obesity management is becoming more precise, more personalised, and more integrated, with nutrition, behaviour, and newer therapies working together rather than in isolation.”

Nilesh Aggarwal, CEO of IJCP Group, said, “At IJCP, our focus has been on strengthening medical education and ensuring that clinicians have access to the latest evidence in a practical, usable format. OBESITAS is an extension of that effort, bringing together science, clinical experience, and real-world discussions to support better decision-making in obesity care.”

Prof. Nitin Kapoor highlighted the need for an India-specific approach to obesity management, stating that coordinated efforts involving endocrinology, nutrition, and long-term patient follow-up are essential for improving outcomes.

A major highlight of the event was the launch of the Thyroid Federation of India, an affiliate of the Thyroid Federation International. The initiative aims to strengthen patient advocacy and coordinated care for thyroid disorders, which affect an estimated 42 million people in India and often overlap with obesity-related conditions.