Obesity – an ever-growing problem of recent times is gaining the notoriety, which it can do without. Flood of articles (paper & web based) from quacks, previously treated patients etc has led to confusion regarding obesity prevention & treatment in the lay people’s mind. We do not see this happen with other lifestyle diseases like hypertension, diabetes.

Promotion of evidence based medical practice, self education & experience sharing are the corner stone of a professional body. Barely 6 years back AIAARO was conceptualized by a small group of physicians & surgeons to bring all qualified obesity practitioners together. Already we have 4 state chapters, international affiliation, newsletter, website, over 400 members, elected national body, 6th annual conference at Hyderabad in March 2008 & responsibility of organizing next Asia-Oceania Congress organisation at Mumbai in Feb 2009 – can it be any better?

Let’s all get together to provide quality care to one & all. Emphasis of our efforts should be on Prevention of obesity especially in young Indians. At the same time, already obese should be offered evidence based treatment.

Research in clinical practice & its presentation through journals or at conferences should become a norm. This brings transparency & others may benefit from your experience. AIAARO provides an ideal platform to all for any research related requirement.

For organising obesity related activities(training programs, camps, CMEs, school surveys, surgical workshops etc) please feel free to ask for AIAARO endorsement or help. You may communicate with Dr Janaki Srinath, Hon Secretary or any other member of executive committee.

We hope to have active participation of more members for development of this specialty in our country.

Dr Ramen Goel