Global Obesity Rates Surpass 1 Billion, Quadrupling Since 1990: Lancet Study
Obesity has become a global epidemic, with more than one billion people worldwide now suffering from the condition. This number has more than quadrupled since 1990, according to a study released by the Lancet medical journal. The study, conducted in collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO), reveals that the obesity crisis is particularly affecting poorer countries, and the rate of obesity is growing among children and adolescents at a faster pace than among adults.
The study, released ahead of World Obesity Day on March 4, paints a grim picture of the global obesity crisis. In 1990, there were approximately 226 million obese adults, adolescents, and children worldwide. Fast forward to 2022, and that number has skyrocketed to a staggering 1,038 million. Francesco Branca, the director of nutrition for health at the WHO, expressed his surprise at the rapid rise, stating that the figure has exceeded expectations by occurring much earlier than anticipated.
To arrive at these estimates, researchers analyzed the weight and height measurements of over 220 million individuals from more than 190 countries. The study found that in 2022, there were 504 million obese adult women and 374 million obese adult men. Since 1990, the obesity rate has nearly tripled for men (14 percent) and more than doubled for women (18.5 percent).
Alarming statistics also reveal that 159 million children and adolescents were living with obesity in 2022, a significant increase from about 31 million in 1990. Obesity is a chronic and complex illness that poses a greater risk of death from heart disease, diabetes, and certain cancers. Furthermore, being overweight increases the risk of death during the coronavirus pandemic.
The study highlights that countries in Polynesia and Micronesia, the Caribbean, the Middle East, and North Africa have been hit hardest by the obesity crisis. Surprisingly, these countries now have higher obesity rates than many high-income industrialized countries, particularly those in Europe. This shift signifies that obesity is no longer solely a problem of the rich but has become a global issue. Branca attributes this change to the rapid lifestyle transformations occurring in low and middle-income countries.
The study also emphasizes the role of diet in contributing to obesity. The “very rapid transformation of the food systems is not for the better,” warns Branca. While not consuming enough food is a leading cause of being underweight, poor eating habits are a prime factor in obesity. The study reveals that in most countries, there are now more people suffering from obesity than being underweight, which has actually decreased since 1990.
Addressing the obesity crisis requires a comprehensive approach. WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus emphasizes the importance of prevention and management of obesity from early life to adulthood through diet, physical activity, and adequate care. He also calls for the cooperation of the private sector, urging them to be accountable for the health impacts of their products. The WHO has supported measures such as taxes on sugary drinks, restrictions on the marketing of unhealthy foods to children, and increased subsidies for healthy foods.
Experts suggest that new treatments for diabetes can also aid in combating obesity. However, Branca cautions that these drugs are not a solution but an important tool in addressing the problem. Obesity is a long-term issue, and it is crucial to consider the potential long-term effects or side effects of these medications.
The Lancet study serves as a wake-up call to the global community, urging immediate action to tackle the obesity crisis. With rates surpassing one billion people worldwide, it is clear that urgent measures are needed to prevent further escalation of this public health emergency.
