1 in 8 people obese; WHO points out risks

ONE in eight people is living with obesity, the World Health Organization (WHO) said as it outlined the numerous health risks associated with being obese, emphasizing that it can have detrimental effects on vital organs and systems in the body.

«It affects the heart, liver, kidneys, joints and reproductive system,» WHO said.

According to a study by The Lancet, obesity rates have significantly increased worldwide from 1990 to 2022. During the period, obesity rates rose in 81 percent of countries for women and 70 percent of countries for men. The uptrend is evident among children, with obesity rates increasing in 70 percent of countries for girls and 69 percent for boys.

Cooks work at the municipal Burle Marx school's kitchen in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, on April 4, 2024. Nearly one-third of children in Brazil are obese, an epidemic city health officials and community leaders are seeking to address in innovative ways, enlisting school cafeterias and taking their message of healthful eating to the street. AFP PHOTO

Being overweight significantly impacts health, leading to severe conditions like cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, musculoskeletal disorders such as osteoarthritis, and certain cancers like endometrial, breast and colon, said WHO.

It stressed that health issues can result in premature death and substantial disability. The risk of health problems begins with being slightly overweight and increases as weight rises, causing long-term suffering for individuals and families and incurring high healthcare costs.

The UN agency said obesity can be prevented by achieving an energy balance between calories consumed and calories used.

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This can be done by limiting total fat intake, shifting from saturated to unsaturated fats, increasing consumption of fruits, vegetables, legumes, whole grains and nuts, and reducing sugar intake.

Additionally, increasing physical activity to at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days can help manage weight and improve health, said WHO.