Number of Obese Children Worldwide More Than Double the Number of Underweight Children: UN Report

A new report by UNICEF has raised alarm over the rising number of obese children globally, showing that childhood obesity has now overtaken undernutrition as a major health concern. According to the findings, the number of overweight children is more than double that of underweight children.

 

The report, based on data from over 190 countries, highlights that unhealthy eating habits, the growing availability of ultra-processed foods, and aggressive digital marketing targeting children are key factors behind the surge. Junk food, sugary drinks, fast food, and processed snacks have become increasingly accessible and affordable, contributing significantly to rising obesity rates.

 

Globally, about 199 million children are overweight, compared to 92.9 million underweight children. In the year 2000, only 13% of children were classified as obese, but by 2022, this proportion had risen to nearly 20%. This trend has been observed in both developed and developing nations, with wealthier countries experiencing particularly sharp increases. For instance, the United States and several European nations have reported that almost one in five children is obese.

 

Health experts warn that childhood obesity is linked to serious long-term conditions, including type-2 diabetes, heart disease, and certain cancers. The rise in obesity also places a heavy financial burden on healthcare systems worldwide.

 

In India, the report indicates that while undernutrition remains a challenge, childhood obesity is also becoming increasingly prevalent, particularly in urban areas. Studies suggest that nearly 5% to 15% of Indian children are now obese, with the rate being higher in cities compared to rural regions.

 

The findings underscore the urgent need for global action to curb childhood obesity through improved nutrition education, stricter regulation of junk food advertising, promotion of healthy diets, and encouraging more physical activity among children. Without intervention, experts fear the obesity epidemic could worsen, leading to severe health crises in future generations.