Dietary changes, reductions in physical activity, and increasing obesity generally follow this transition, especially as urbanization occurs. Diet has been associated with the risk of chronic disease, although few of these associations have been investigated into or quantified adequately. Though not a comprehensive review, the following sections discuss factors of diet and lifestyle that may contribute to the growing burden of chronic diseases in India
Obesity and Physical Activity
Obesity and lack of physical activity are associated with increased risk at various cancer sites, including breast and endometrial cancer. In India, increases in the rates of obesity, central adiposity, and waist-hip ratio associated with urbanization are seen in every region and are highest among those with the highest levels of education and income.
A large percentage of Indians, particularly Hindus, practice vegetarianism and avoid meat and fish products in their diet. Vegetarian diets have been associated with decreased risk for prostate cancer. Case-control studies that compared non-vegetarian and vegetarian diets and alcohol and tobacco use in India.
Diets high in saturated fats have been associated with increased risk for cancer. Fat intake, especially saturated fat, is increasing in the middle class in India, although some rural residents traditionally have had a high intake of ghee (clarified butter, high content of saturated fat), as well. Studies have given equivocal results regarding the link between fat intake and the risk of cancer.
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