**Global Obesity Epidemic Continues to Worsen: Over One Billion Affected**
On World Obesity Day, a global analysis published in the journal The Lancet revealed alarming statistics regarding obesity around the world. According to the report, over a billion people are currently suffering from obesity, with 159 million of them being children and adolescents and 879 million being adults.
The director general of the World Health Organization, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, emphasized the importance of addressing obesity from an early age through proper diet, physical activity, and necessary treatment. He called for the collaboration of governments, communities, and the private sector in tackling this widespread issue.
Italy has been highlighted as a concerning case, ranking fourth in Europe for the prevalence of overweight and obesity in children. The link between obesity and diabetes is also emphasized, with experts warning that obese children have a high likelihood of developing diabetes later in life.
The term ‘diabesity’ has been coined to underscore the close connection between obesity and diabetes. The rapid increase in obesity rates among children and adolescents is particularly worrying, with the percentage more than quadrupling since 1990.
The research published in The Lancet also pointed out a decrease in the underweight population over the same period, highlighting the need for improved access to healthy and nutritious foods globally.
The global obesity epidemic is a pressing issue that requires immediate action from governments, communities, and the private sector to prevent further escalation. The collaboration of all stakeholders is crucial in curbing this health crisis and ensuring a healthier future for generations to come.
For further information, the book “Globesity” by Andrea Segrè, a young researcher from the University of Padua, delves into the dangers of the calorie bomb and is set to be released on March 4th.
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