Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Agency Report
Published on 2024-03-03 13:00:46
A recent report published by The Lancet reveals a concerning statistic that more than a billion people worldwide are currently classified as obese, posing significant health risks. The study, conducted by over 1,500 researchers from the Non-Communicable Diseases Risk Factor Collaboration and the World Health Organization (WHO), draws on data from over 220 million individuals across 190 countries, making it one of the most comprehensive assessments to date.
The report highlights a troubling trend in obesity rates, with figures showing that obesity rates among adults have more than doubled since 1990 and quadrupled among children and adolescents aged five to 19. The World Health Organization defines obesity as abnormal or excessive fat accumulation affecting individuals with a Body Mass Index (BMI) over 25.
What is even more alarming is that obesity has surpassed underweight as a prevalent issue, even in low- and middle-income countries. In 2019, an estimated five million deaths were attributed to higher-than-optimal BMI, underlining the severity of the global obesity crisis.
The report indicates that nearly 880 million adults and 159 million children lived with obesity in 2022, with 43 per cent of adults being overweight. The prevalence of obesity has serious health implications and demands urgent attention.
The study underscores the importance of early intervention in promoting healthy practices from infancy and regulating the marketing of unhealthy food and beverages, especially targeting children. Recommendations from the report include implementing comprehensive school food and nutrition policies, along with measures to control access to high-fat, sugary, and salty products near schools.
Majid Ezzati, a senior author of the study from Imperial College, London, highlighted the dual challenge of rising obesity rates alongside persistent undernutrition, particularly in vulnerable populations. Efforts need to be made to address both ends of the malnutrition spectrum.
WHO Director-General, Tedros Ghebreyesus, emphasized the importance of prevention and management of obesity across the lifespan. He called for collaboration across sectors and accountability from the private sector to address the global obesity crisis effectively.
Francesco Branca, Director of WHO’s Nutrition and Food Safety Department, emphasized the challenges in implementing effective policies to address obesity. He stressed the need for affordable access to healthy diets and environments conducive to physical activity.
The report serves as a wake-up call, urging immediate action to curb the rising obesity rates globally. It is crucial to take proactive measures to address this public health crisis and ensure the well-being of individuals worldwide.
In conclusion, the findings of The Lancet’s report underscore the urgent need for comprehensive strategies, interventions, and policies to combat the growing obesity epidemic and promote healthy lifestyles among individuals of all ages. Collaboration, accountability, and a focus on early intervention are crucial in addressing this pressing global health issue.
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