Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Elaine Chen
Published on 2024-02-29 23:30:35
Obesity is a global health crisis affecting more than 1 billion people, according to a new study published in The Lancet by the NCD Risk Factor Collaboration. From 1990 to 2022, obesity rates among children and teens quadrupled, reaching 159 million, while rates among adults more than doubled, totaling 879 million. This alarming trend is particularly pronounced in low- and middle-income countries, with significant increases in youth obesity rates observed in regions like Polynesia, Micronesia, the Caribbean, Latin America, and the Middle East and North Africa.
The shift to industrialized lifestyles in these regions, characterized by diets high in processed foods and reduced physical activity, has contributed to the rise in obesity. Traditionally associated with high-income countries, obesity and other chronic diseases like diabetes are now impacting low- and middle-income countries as well. The study highlights the need for a transformation of food systems and environments to prevent obesity, as relying solely on pharmaceutical interventions, such as GLP-1 based obesity drugs like Wegovy and Zepbound, may not be a sustainable solution.
While these drugs offer promise in addressing rising obesity rates, their high cost and availability issues pose challenges in ensuring equitable access to treatment. With prices exceeding $10,000 annually in the U.S., there is a risk of widening health inequities globally. It is crucial to ensure that those most in need of these treatments can access them without financial burden.
The study utilized data on height and weight to define obesity in adults as a body-mass index (BMI) above 30 and underweight as a BMI below 18.5. For children and teens, obesity was defined as two standard deviations above typical growth trends. The analysis also examined underweight rates, which have decreased over the past three decades in regions like south and southeast Asia and sub-Saharan Africa. However, underweight remains a significant issue in these regions, alongside the growing problem of obesity.
The authors emphasize the importance of addressing both underweight and obesity, as both are linked to inadequate access to nutritious foods. Undernutrition and obesity are two sides of the same problem, reflecting a lack of access to a healthy diet. To combat these challenges, policies promoting nutrition, physical activity, and healthcare services are recommended. This includes initiatives to improve nutrition early in life, regulate food marketing, and provide nutrition services in primary health care settings.
In conclusion, the study underscores the urgent need to address the global burden of obesity, especially in low- and middle-income countries experiencing rapid increases in obesity rates. By implementing comprehensive strategies that address both underweight and obesity, we can work towards a healthier future for all populations.
