In India, obesity is becoming a serious concern, with experts linking it to unhealthy eating habits and a lack of physical activity. Doctors have noticed that more women are suffering from lipedema, a condition that causes fat to build up in the legs, hips, buttocks, and sometimes arms.

Lipedema is often confused with obesity or lymphedema, but it is a separate condition that gets worse over time and can be very painful. There are different types of lipedema, depending on which body parts are affected, and some people may experience multiple types at once.

There are different types of lipedema based on where fat builds up in the body. In Type I, fat accumulates between the belly button and hips. Type II affects the area between the pelvis and knees, while Type III extends from the pelvis to the ankles. In Type IV, fat builds up between the shoulders and wrists, and in Type V, it is found between the knees and ankles. Some people may have more than one type at the same time.

Why are Indian women more prone to lipedema?

Lipedema is more common in women due to genetic and hormonal factors. Indian women, in particular, face a higher risk because of lifestyle habits, dietary choices, and delayed medical attention. Experts say that conditions like dyslipidemia (high cholesterol and triglycerides) start early in South Asians, making them more prone to fat accumulation disorders like lipedema. The condition often appears during puberty, pregnancy, or menopause when hormones fluctuate.

1. Delayed health check-ups

Many Indian women tend to ignore their health due to cultural and social reasons. This leads to late detection of lipid imbalances, making treatment difficult and allowing the condition to worsen over time.

2. Unhealthy eating habits

A diet high in processed foods,unhealthy fats, and refined carbohydrates contributes to weight gain. Many women do not eat enough protein, fibre, and essential nutrients, which affects fat metabolism and increases the risk of lipedema.

3. Hormonal changes

Hormonal imbalances due to PCOS, pregnancy, and menopause can trigger fat accumulation in certain body parts. These changes affect how the body stores and processes fat, making women more vulnerable to lipedema.

4. Lack of physical activity

Many women, especially in cities, live sedentary lifestyles due to work and household duties. However, daily chores are not a substitute for proper exercise. Lack of regular workouts can lead to obesity and other metabolic disorders, increasing the chances of developing lipedema.

To lower the risk of lipedema, experts suggest regular exercise, a balanced diet, and timely health check-ups to detect and manage the condition early.

Signs and symptoms of lipedema

Lipedema mainly affects the lower body, causing fat to build up in the buttocks, thighs, and calves, and sometimes in the upper arms. This fat accumulation happens on both sides of the body. People with lipedema may notice small lumps under their skin, which can make the affected areas feel bumpy. 

The condition can also cause pain, which may range from mild to severe and can be constant or occur only when pressure is applied. Many individuals experience a heavy feeling in their legs, along with swelling and inflammation. The skin may bruise easily, and those with lipedema often struggle with fatigue and chronic tiredness.

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