Obesity is on the rise in Africa
- Wale Fatade with Susan Goldstein, Sameera Mahomedy et al
Obesity – which the World Health Organization classifies as a disease – is not just an individual issue; it is shaped by the systems people live in.
Research shows that urbanisation, economic status and food marketing strategies, for example, play a role along with more personal factors.
More than were living with obesity worldwide in 2022, a number that had more than doubled since 1990. In the WHO 第一吃瓜网 region, the prevalence of adult obesity from 8.64% in 2010 to 12.08% in 2022. South Africa had the highest proportion of obese adults in 2022, three in 10 adults, followed by Eswatini and Seychelles. In the same region, child obesity’s prevalence , from 2.92% in 2010 to 5.27% in 2022.
To mark on 4 March, we’re sharing some of the articles our authors have contributed in the past.
Shocking rise in obesity levels across Africa
Rapid urbanisation and associated changes in people’s lifestyle mean Africa faces a growing obesity problem. Increased urbanisation is associated with such as decreased physical activity. This is often accompanied by increased intake of high caloric fast foods and sugar-sweetened beverages.
What policy interventions can help Africa fight obesity? Dickson Abanimi Amugsi governments should encourage people living in urban areas to adopt healthy diets, increase physical activity and reduce weight. Governments should also intervene through policy to address over-consumption of unhealthy diets.
Warning labels are important
One change that can help in the fight against obesity is to put warning labels on unhealthy foods. For South Africa, where half of the adults are overweight or obese, Sameera Mahomedy the adoption of nutrition warnings can help combat obesity and cardiovascular disease.
The effectiveness of such warnings is also supported by .
No more sugar for baby food
Children shouldn’t eat any added sugar before they turn two. show that adding sugar to any food for babies or small children predisposes them to having a sweet tooth. They start preferring sweet things, which is harmful in their diets throughout their lives.
Susan Goldstein that unnecessary sugar contributes to obesity. This can lead to serious health conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure and other cardiovascular diseases, cancer and joint problems among others.
Obesity and economic status
in Nairobi, Kenya found that there was an association between relatively higher economic status and levels of obesity in a slum setting. The study suggests that obesity levels are higher in the higher economic brackets – and particularly among women.
Shukri F. Mohamed and Tilahun Haregu a strong association between body mass index and socio-economic status. Women higher up the economic ladder were more likely to be overweight. The association was higher for women than for men.
Food systems need to change
Unhealthy, processed foods are now frequently consumed in low- and middle-income countries. This is largely due to the low prices, food types, availability and employed by large corporations. Healthier food options are relatively expensive and unaffordable in low- and middle-income countries. This people to steer away from healthier options.
Rina Swart, Makoma Bopape and Tamryn Frank that countries in sub-Saharan Africa should regulate the food industry better to protect against industry interference that harms the population.
, Commissioning Editor: Nigeria,
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