Unified framework aims to tackle diabetes, obesity, fatty liver disease and cardiovascular disorders; India eyes global leadership in metabolic health

Special Correspondent: Arun Sharma
New Delhi/Noida

In a landmark initiative to address India’s rapidly growing burden of diabetes, obesity, fatty liver disease and cardiovascular disorders, the Global Metabolic Health Alliance (GMHA) convened leading clinicians, researchers, scientists, policymakers and public health experts at its international headquarters in Noida on Wednesday to lay the foundation for a National Metabolic Health Mission.


The high-level workshop marked the formation of the GMHA India Country Collective, bringing together experts from diverse medical disciplines to develop a unified, evidence-based strategy tailored to India’s healthcare priorities.


Experts highlighted that diabetes, obesity, fatty liver disease and cardiovascular ailments are not isolated conditions but interconnected metabolic disorders. However, these diseases have traditionally been managed through separate medical specialties, resulting in fragmented care and missed opportunities for prevention and early intervention. Participants stressed the urgent need for an integrated national framework that combines prevention, diagnosis, treatment, research and policy under one comprehensive approach.


The workshop featured extensive deliberations on childhood obesity, cardio-metabolic risk assessment, the establishment of a National Metabolic Health Registry, multicentre clinical research, standardized clinical toolkits, healthcare workforce training and nationwide public awareness campaigns. Discussions also focused on aligning future initiatives with existing national health programmes to ensure effective implementation.


Prof. Amitesh Agarwal, President of the GMHA India Country Collective, said India has a unique opportunity to emerge as a global leader in metabolic health.


“Our goal extends beyond treating individual diseases. We are working to build an integrated and practical framework suited to India’s needs—one that seamlessly connects prevention, clinical care, research and health policy. This workshop marks the beginning of a national movement that has the potential to influence global metabolic health strategies,” he said.


Prof. Dr. Arpana Raizada, Director, Department of Medicine, University College of Medical Sciences (UCMS) and GTB Hospital, emphasized that the rapid rise of metabolic diseases demands a multidisciplinary response.


“Diabetes, obesity, fatty liver disease and cardiovascular disorders should no longer be viewed in isolation. Prevention, early detection and effective management require coordinated efforts across multiple medical specialties,” she noted.


Dr. Amit Gupta, Executive Director, GMCA, Greater Noida, said the initiative would redefine India’s approach to combating metabolic diseases through research, innovation and evidence-driven health policy.


According to him, strengthening scientific collaboration and developing effective healthcare strategies will significantly reduce the burden of metabolic disorders while improving access to quality healthcare for millions of citizens.


The workshop concluded with a decision to prepare the India Metabolic Health Identity Document, which will serve as the foundation for future national consultations, multicentre research, training programmes, implementation toolkits, public awareness initiatives and policy development.


Experts believe the initiative has the potential not only to improve the health of millions of Indians but also to position India as a global leader in the field of metabolic health.