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A new survey by the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine (PCRM)
India
healthysoch
New Delhi, August 04, 2025:
A new survey by the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine (PCRM) reveals a strong shift in public sentiment in the capital: 87% of Delhi adults say they would prefer a diet-based approach, such as a plant-based diet over injectable drugs to lose weight. As pharmaceutical options for weight loss gain popularity, the capital’s residents are signalling a strong preference for sustainable, lifestyle-driven solutions rooted in nutrition and long-term health.
With research showing a rise in early-onset obesity, dyslipidemia, and hypertension among young adults in Delhi, the survey’s findings reflect a timely shift in public mindset.
“The survey highlights how open Delhi residents are to change when they understand the benefits. A plant-based diet is not only effective for weight management but also reduces the risk of conditions like type 2 diabetes and heart disease. Making this information accessible can help more people make healthier choices,” said Dr Zeeshan Ali, research programme specialist at PCRM.
Excess weight continues to be a widespread concern in the city. According to the survey, 87% of Delhi adults have attempted to lose weight at some point, yet only 33% have managed to maintain their weight loss long-term. Additionally, 35% of respondents in Delhi reported currently living with excess weight, underscoring the need for more sustainable and accessible weight management solutions.
When it comes to barriers to weight loss, 35% of Delhi residents identified the easy availability and affordability of unhealthy food as the main challenge, followed by lack of time or motivation to exercise at 30%. The leading motivations for losing weight were to reduce the risk of chronic diseases at 54% and improve self-esteem and confidence at 50%.
Another key finding was that while many Delhi residents were familiar with injectable weight-loss drug, most lacked clarity about how these drugs actually work. Nearly 79% were aware of potential side effects during use, and 76% had heard of side effects after stopping them.
These views are further supported by public sentiment around safety and education, with 89% of Delhi respondents saying it is important for people in India to learn about non-drug-based approaches to weight loss and 88% agreeing that such alternatives deserve more attention. The findings point to a growing opportunity to inspire healthier, long-term lifestyle choices in Delhi through credible, nutrition-focused education and awareness.
