Obesity: A Global Epidemic
If you believe that obesity is a problem of the developed world, think again. This global pandemic is also prevalent in developing nations that are undergoing rapid economic development (1).
Key Facts:
· Worldwide obesity has doubled between 1980 and 2014
· In 2014, it was estimated that over 600 million adults were obese
· Obesity is a BMI greater >30
· Obesity is caused by an imbalance between caloric consumption and caloric expenditure
· Increased intake of sugars and fats
· A decrease in physical activity due to urbanization
Obesity originally began as a problem associated among those of high socioeconomic status. Until recently, developing countries like Mexico, China and Thailand displayed the most drastic increments in obesity (2). The alarming increases of obesity around the world led to the World Health Organization (WHO) officially acknowledging the pandemic in 1997 (3).
Studies have suggested that urbanization and globalization play a crucial role in explaining the rise in obesity among developing countries. Urbanization has resulted in the reduction of energy expenditure compared to rural life. In addition, manual labor experienced mainly in rural areas have now been replaced by a sedentary desk or sidewalk job. Globalization has allowed the introduction of low nutrient, caloric dense foods and edible oils into the local food market of developing countries. These factors combined contribute to the growing rates of obesity in developing countries (4).
Dr. Sal Lacagnina the Vice President of Health and Wellness for Lee Memorial Health System mentions that “All of the chronic diseases, are related to weight issues. It’s anticipated that the next generation will not live as long as this current generation if things continue to go the way they are.
The rise in obesity, brings forth serious detrimental health effects. A heightened BMI places an individual at risk for diseases such as, type II diabetes, cardiovascular diseases and many other cancers (5). Furthermore, the projected increases in overweight and obesity in adults will continue to intensify the burden of obesity related morbidity and mortality in the years to come (6).
Obesity is preventable and it is vital that we take the initiative to combat the obesity in both the developed and developing word. The change starts with YOU.
- Bhurosy T, Jeewon R. Overweight and obesity epidemic in developing countries: a problem with diet, physical activity, or socioeconomic status? The Scientific World Journal. 2014;2014.
2. Popkin BM, Gordon-Larsen P. The nutrition transition: worldwide obesity dynamics and their determinants. International journal of obesity. 2004;28:S2-S9.
3. WHO Consultation on Obesity (1999: Geneva S, Organization WH. Obesity : preventing and managing the global epidemic : report of a WHO consultation. Geneva : World Health Organization; 2000.
4. Caballero B. The Global Epidemic of Obesity: An Overview. Epidemiologic Reviews. 2007 13 June 2007;29(1):1–5.
5. Ezzati M, Lopez A, Rodgers AD, Murray CJL. Comparative quantification of health risks: global and regional burden of disease attributable to selected major risk factors. Geneva: World Health Organization; 2004.
6. Butland B, Jebb S, Kopelman P, McPherson K, Thomas S, Mardell J, et al. Foresight. Tackling obesities: future choices. Project report. Foresight. Tackling obesities: future choices. Project report. 2007.
Featured image: Understanding Obesity and its effects. 2014. WHO
Featured image: Future diets: the global rise of obesity. 2014. Overseas Development Institute (ODI)
