By: Natasha Archary
One in 8 people are now living with obesity, with data from the World Health Organisation (WHO) suggesting that more than 1 billion people are obese.
Experts say that 50% of South African women will likely fall under the obese spectrum by 2030 if current trends are anything to go by.
According to WHO the number of obese adults has more than doubled since 1990, and in 2022 43% of adults, more than 1 billion people across the world were living with obesity.
The concern is that body positivity amongst women is aiding obesity, and creating a society that believes getting bigger is beautiful instead of unhealthy.
WHO Director-General Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus says obesity is a complex chronic disease which can lead to a number of health conditions.
“Getting back on track to meet the global targets for curbing obesity will take the work of governments and communities, supported by evidence-based policies from WHO and national public health agencies. Importantly, it requires the cooperation of the private sector, which must be accountable for the health impacts of their products.
Obesity is a complex chronic disease. The causes are well understood, as are the interventions needed to contain the crisis, which are backed by strong evidence.”
In 2019 female obesity rates were cause for concern, but children who are spending more time on smart devices instead of spending time on physical activities are also adopting unhealthy habits, and leading a more sedentary lifestyle.
With World Obesity Day falling on 04 March, current reports show a combined overweight and obesity prevalence of 13.5% in chilren between 6 and 14 years.
This is 10% higher than the global prevalence.
Complications from obesity include diabetes, hypertension, risk of stroke, high blood pressure and heart failure.
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