Child Obesity Levels Surpass Underweight Cases Worldwide for the First Time

According to the new UNICEF report, one in ten children aged 5 to 19, approximately 188 million globally, is living with obesity. This condition increases the risk of chronic diseases such as type-2 diabetes, heart conditions, and certain cancers. Catherine Russell, the Executive Director of UNICEF, emphasized that discussions around malnutrition must now include the growing concern of obesity. She pointed out that ultra-processed foods are increasingly replacing healthier options like fruits and vegetables, which are essential for children's cognitive development and mental health. The report, titled 'Feeding Profit: How Food Environments are Failing Children,' draws on data from over 190 countries and underscores this alarming trend.

The report highlights a drastic change since 2000, with the percentage of underweight children dropping while obesity has more than tripled. Today, obesity rates surpass those of underweight in all regions except sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia. The Pacific Islands, in particular, have seen traditional diets displaced by cheap, energy-dense imported foods. Even in high-income countries, the trend is evident, with significant portions of children in Chile, the United States, and the United Arab Emirates affected. Globally, one in five children and adolescents is now overweight, with nearly half classified as obese.

Powerful commercial forces are central to this troubling trend. The aggressive marketing of ultra-processed and fast foods, rich in sugar, salt, unhealthy fats, and other additives, is shaping children's diets worldwide. A UNICEF poll involving 64,000 young people from 170 countries revealed that 75% had seen advertisements for sugary drinks, snacks, or fast food in the preceding week. The influence of these ads is profound, with 60% of respondents expressing a desire to consume the advertised products. Even in conflict-affected regions, 68% of young people reported exposure to such marketing.

The economic impact of rising obesity is staggering. By 2035, the global cost associated with overweight and obesity levels is expected to exceed $4 trillion annually. In Peru alone, obesity-related health issues are projected to cost over $210 billion across a generation. These financial burdens underscore the urgent need for systemic change in food environments and public health strategies.

Governments worldwide are beginning to respond to this crisis. For example, Mexico has banned the sale of sugary drinks and ultra-processed foods in public schools, benefiting over 34 million children. UNICEF is calling for more countries to implement comprehensive reforms such as mandatory food labeling, restrictions on marketing unhealthy products, and taxes on junk food. Catherine Russell advocates for policies that ensure nutritious and affordable food access for every child, emphasizing the necessity of supporting parents and caregivers in nurturing healthy eating habits.