ISLAMABAD, Jan 8: A majority of people living in the federal capital are at nutritional risk for being over-nourished or undernourished.

This was the finding of a study conducted by Dr Rezzan Khan, consultant nutritionist and head of nutrition and dietetics department in a local hospital. He had recently conducted a two- day nutritional screening and assessment camp in the capital during which he screened and assessed 500 people.

The screening results showed that 28 per cent of the individuals who were assessed were in high obesity grade II category BMI (Body Mass Index) which suggested that they were overweight by more than 30 kg/m2, while 30 per cent were in obesity grade I category (BMI 25-30 kg/m2) whereas seven were underweight (malnourished).

Body Mass Index (BMI) is a tool for indicating weight status in adults. All these individuals were associated with one or more nutrition-related diseases. The screening results also showed that 34 per cent people had high cholesterol, 10 per cent were diabetic, 12 per cent suffered from high blood pressure and six per cent had cardiac problems. Obesity if not controlled could lead to chronic diseases like heart problems and even cancer.

The data collected from the screening suggested that instances of obesity, cholesterol and diabetes start at a young age and increases with time (age) because majority of the people who were screened were within the age group of 30 years.

During the screening, the individuals at nutritional risk or prone to be at risk in future, were also counselled for healthy diet and lifestyle changes.

Recommendations and guidelines for prevention, treatment and even alleviating current nutritional problems like obesity, high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, anaemia, kidney, liver and bone problems were also discussed during individual counselling.

Interestingly, Dr Rezzan Khan said the nutrition pre- assessment indicated that 87 per cent of the cross-examined individuals did not have any dietary counselling at any point of their lives.

Many of these people would have altered their behaviour had they been aware of healthy eating and lifestyle habits. He said consultation with a professional nutritionist was necessary for individuals who did not want to suffer from illness and debilitating conditions associated with obesity, high cholesterol and blood sugar.

Persons who were obese or overweight should try not to gain additional weight, in addition, those who were obese or overweight with other risk factors should consider losing weight.

The doctor said even a small weight loss like 10 per cent of one's current weight could help to lower the disease risk factor. Physical activity and good nutrition are key factors in leading a healthy lifestyle and reducing risk for disease, he said.