In a groundbreaking study conducted by children's charity Unicef, it has been revealed that for the first time in history, the number of obese children worldwide has surpassed that of children who are underweight. This alarming trend indicates that around one in ten children aged between five and nineteen years—approximately 188 million children—are now affected by obesity.
Researchers attribute this rise in childhood obesity to a significant shift from traditional diets to ones that heavily rely on ultra-processed foods. These foods are often cheaper and high in calories, leading to a dramatic increase in obesity rates among children. Unicef, an agency of the United Nations, is calling on governments to take immediate action to protect children's diets from harmful ingredients and to limit the influence of the ultra-processed food industry on policy decisions.
Traditionally, when health experts referred to malnourished children, the focus was primarily on those who were underweight. However, this definition has evolved, and now also encompasses the serious health impacts of obesity. Even in low-income countries, the concern over obesity is growing. Children are classified as overweight when they weigh significantly more than what is considered healthy for their age, sex, and height. Obesity, a severe form of being overweight, is linked to serious health risks such as type-2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and certain cancers later in life.
Good nutrition is essential throughout childhood, playing a vital role in growth, cognitive development, and mental health. Unfortunately, many traditional diets are being replaced by ultra-processed foods that are high in sugar, unhealthy fats, and preservatives. According to Unicef's executive director, Catherine Russell, the challenges posed by childhood obesity should not be underestimated, as it poses a significant threat to the health and development of children.
Undernutrition, which can manifest as wasting and stunting, continues to be a significant issue for children under five in many low- and middle-income countries. However, Unicef's recent data shows that the prevalence of underweight children aged 5-19 has decreased from nearly 13% in 2000 to 9.2% today. Conversely, obesity rates have risen significantly, from 3% to 9.4%. This means that nearly one in ten children are now classified as obese.
The study estimates that the number of overweight children—including those who are obese—has increased to the point where one in five school-age children and adolescents are now overweight. This equates to approximately 391 million children worldwide. Importantly, the prevalence of obesity now exceeds underweight in all regions except for sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia.
Some of the highest rates of childhood obesity are found in Pacific Island nations, such as Niue (38%), The Cook Islands (37%), and Nauru (33%). However, even many high-income countries are grappling with significant obesity rates. Among 5-19 year olds, the rates are particularly alarming: 27% in Chile, 21% in the United States, and 21% in the United Arab Emirates.
Unicef's Catherine Russell emphasizes the importance of addressing the "double burden of malnutrition," which includes both stunting and obesity. Targeted interventions are necessary to combat this issue. There is an urgent need for policies that ensure that nutritious and affordable food is accessible to every child. Supporting parents and caretakers in providing healthy foods for their children is essential for fostering their growth and development.
