A report released by the World Health Organization (WHO) revealed that by 2035, nearly half of the world’s population is likely to be overweight, unhealthy, and obese due to overtaking and taking junk food.
The report issues the alarming trend of rising obesity rates across the world, which have been linked to a range of health problems such as heart disease, diabetes, and certain types of cancer.
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The report, which is based on a study of data from more than 180 countries, shows that the number of people who are overweight or obese has been steadily increasing over the past few decades. In 2021, around 2.2 billion people, or 30% of the world’s population, were classified as overweight or obese. If current trends continue, this figure is projected to rise to 4.5 billion, or 45% of the world’s population, by 2
The fact is that obesity rates are increasing more rapidly in low- and middle-income countries. In these countries, rapid economic development, changing lifestyles, and increased availability of high-calorie, processed foods are contributing to rising obesity rates. This trend is particularly worrying, as these countries often have weaker healthcare systems and may struggle to cope with the increased burden of obesity-related health problems.
Commenting on the report, Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Director-General of the WHO, said: “These findings highlight the urgent need for governments, the food industry, and civil society to take action to address the root causes of obesity. We need to promote healthier diets, more physical activity, and better regulation of the food industry to ensure that people can make healthier choices.”
The report’s findings are a cause for concern and underline the need for urgent action to tackle the obesity epidemic.
Governments, healthcare professionals, and individuals alike must work together to promote healthy lifestyles and address the root causes of obesity. Failure to do so could have significant health, social, and economic consequences for individuals and societies around the world.
