“Overweight and obesity, defined by excessive fat deposits, represent significant health concerns globally, with implications for various diseases and quality of life,” stated a recent report.
The diagnosis of these conditions is primarily made through body mass index (BMI) calculations, though additional measurements such as waist circumference can aid in diagnosis. According to recent data, the prevalence of overweight and obesity has surged, affecting billions of adults and millions of children worldwide, with significant increases observed over the past few decades.
In 2022, it was estimated that over 2.5 billion adults aged 18 and older were overweight, with over 890 million of them living with obesity.
The prevalence of obesity has more than doubled since 1990, indicating a concerning trend. Additionally, millions of children under the age of 5 were reported to be overweight, with a notable rise observed in low- and middle-income countries. The alarming increase in obesity rates poses significant challenges to public health systems globally.
The health risks associated with overweight and obesity are well-documented, contributing to millions of deaths annually from noncommunicable diseases such as cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and certain cancers.
Furthermore, childhood and adolescent obesity have immediate and long-term health consequences, affecting both physical and psychosocial well-being. The economic impact of the obesity epidemic is substantial, with predicted costs reaching trillions of dollars annually if left unaddressed.
Efforts to address overweight and obesity must involve multifaceted approaches at both individual and societal levels. Preventive interventions, including promoting healthy lifestyles and behaviors from pre-conception to adulthood, are essential.
Moreover, healthcare systems play a crucial role in obesity prevention and management by providing counseling, monitoring, and integrated health services. However, addressing the root causes of obesity requires broader societal changes, including policy interventions to create supportive environments and communities that facilitate healthy choices.
