A Major global health problem affecting many societies and reducing life expectancy has been identified, with new World Health Organisation (WHO) data showing wide regional differences and rapid growth in some areas.
The new WHO data shows Pacific island nations record the highest obesity rates, Africa is experiencing fast increases, and Vietnam has the lowest rate worldwide.
American Samoa records the highest obesity rate, with more than three quarters of its population affected. Tonga, Nauru, Tokelau, the Cook Islands, Niue, Tuvalu and Saoa all record rates above 60 percent.
The data also links rising obesity in several countries to the prevalence of highly processed foods, reduced physical activity and beliefs associating body size with wealth.
Africa, once more associated with undernutrition, is now facing rising obesity levels. South Africa records the highest rate on the continent, with almost 30 percent of adults affected. Eswatini, Seychelles, Mauritius, Botswana and Egypt are also recording higher levels.
Childhood obesity is increasing rapidly, with the number of 5- to 19-year-olds affected nearly doubling over ten years.
WHO data shows Africa’s obesity rate rose from 8.6 percent in 2010 to over 12 percent in 2022.
In Latin America, Chile records the highest obesity rate at 39.5 percent, with Mexico and Argentina also reporting high levels.
The United States (US) records widespread obesity, linked to fast food consumption and large portion sizes. Canada records a rate of 27.3 per cent.
In Europe, the United Kingdom and Germany record around 20 per cent, while France, Portugal, Belgium, the Netherlands and Spain record lower but still significant levels.
Vietnam records an obesity rate of 2.1 percent, the lowest globally, with diets based mainly on rice, vegetables and fish, alongside higher physical activity levels and low consumption of processed foods.
According to WHO, its findings reveal how obesity remains a major global health issue with significant regional variation.
