Report On Obesity
Obesity continues to be a pressing global health issue, with significant implications for both developed and developing nations.
Global Overview:
- Current Statistics: As of 2022, over 1 billion individuals worldwide are living with obesity, including approximately 880 million adults and 159 million children and adolescents. (euronews.com)
- Projected Trends: The World Obesity Federation’s 2023 atlas predicts that by 2035, 51% of the global population, equating to more than 4 billion people, will be overweight or obese. This surge is particularly notable among children and in lower-income countries. (moneycontrol.com)
India-Specific Data:
- Adult Obesity: The Economic Survey 2024 highlights that the adult obesity rate in India has more than tripled in recent years. The National Family Health Survey (NFHS) indicates that in urban areas, 29.8% of men and 24% of women aged 18-69 are classified as obese. In rural regions, the figures are 19.3% for men and 19.7% for women. (economictimes.indiatimes.com)
- Childhood Obesity: A study published in The Lancet reports that approximately 12.5 million children aged 5 to 19 in India were overweight in 2022, a significant increase from 0.4 million in 1990. (newindianexpress.com)
Contributing Factors:
The rise in obesity rates is attributed to increased consumption of highly processed foods high in sugars and fats, reduced physical activity, and limited access to diverse, nutritious foods. These lifestyle changes have exacerbated health issues related to obesity. (firstpost.com)
Health Implications:
Obesity is linked to a higher risk of non-communicable diseases such as cardiovascular ailments, diabetes, and certain cancers. The rising obesity rates underscore the need for comprehensive public health strategies to promote healthier lifestyles and mitigate associated health risks. (euronews.com)
Addressing this growing epidemic requires collaborative efforts from governments, healthcare providers, and communities to implement effective interventions and promote awareness about the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle.