Obesity is exploding with more than 12% of people classified as obese worldwide- Study
Worldwide obesity rates have reached alarming levels, as per a recent study reported in the prestigious medical journal “The Lancet”.
According to the study, one in every eight people globally, amounting to more than 12% of the total population, is classified as obese. The data, collected through analyses of population-based studies across 200 countries and territories, revealed that over 43% of adults, approximately one billion people, are living with obesity as of 2022. This number has more than doubled since 1990.
Rising Obesity Rates in Children
Alarmingly, the study also found that the obesity rate among children between the ages of five and 19 has quadrupled in recent years. This trend is a major concern, as obesity in childhood often leads to long-term health issues in adulthood.
Preventing and Managing Obesity
Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, the Director-General of the World Health Organization (WHO), emphasized the importance of early life prevention and management of obesity. He highlighted the need for a comprehensive approach that includes a balanced diet, regular exercise, and adequate medical care. Dr. Ghebreyesus emphasized that private sector cooperation and accountability are crucial for addressing the global health impacts of unhealthy food products.
The Role of Diet and Lifestyle Modifications
Dr. Marc Siegel, a clinical professor of medicine at NYU Langone Medical Center and a noted medical contributor to Fox News, pointed out that obesity can be attributed to poor dietary choices rich in carbohydrates and fats, and lacking in proteins and vegetables. He suggested countering obesity by increasing the intake of vegetables, fiber, and fish while reducing the consumption of alcohol, bread, pasta, rice, and desserts. Portion control, increased water consumption, and regular exercise were also highlighted as effective ways to combat obesity.
Medications and Consequences of Obesity
Dr. Siegel further stressed the potential of weight-loss drugs such as Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro, and Zepbound in addressing obesity. However, he recommended reserving these medications for individuals who are genuinely obese and have not responded to lifestyle modifications. Obesity is a significant contributing factor to various life-threatening ailments, including diabetes, heart disease, stroke, and certain types of cancer, as reported by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
As obesity rates continue to rise, it is crucial to adopt healthier lifestyles, promote proper nutrition, and allocate resources to combat this global health crisis.
