Global Shift: Obesity Overtakes Undernutrition Among Youths for the First Time, UN Reports

In a significant development highlighted by UNICEF, global data reveals that for the first time, obesity has surpassed undernutrition as the leading form of malnutrition among children and adolescents aged five to 19. This change is largely driven by the increasing exposure to unhealthy marketing practices by the food industry, particularly targeting young people with advertisements for junk foods, sugary drinks, and salty snacks. These ultra-processed foods are often more affordable than nutritious options like fruits, vegetables, and protein sources, leading to a dietary shift that affects growth, cognitive development, and mental health.

The report emphasizes that nearly 10% of this age group is projected to live with obesity by 2025, equating to approximately 188 million children and adolescents. Overweight conditions, which can develop into obesity, have doubled from 2000 to 2022, rising from 194 million to 391 million globally. Concurrently, the prevalence of underweight youths has decreased from 13% to 10%, primarily in developing countries, indicating progress in combatting undernutrition.

However, the increase in obesity is particularly alarming due to its association with metabolic disorders like diabetes, certain cancers, and mental health issues such as anxiety and depression. In 2022, 8% of children and teens worldwide, or 163 million individuals, were classified as obese.

UNICEF highlights that this trend represents a "failure of society" to create protective environments for children, citing unethical marketing by food corporations as a primary factor. Children are exposed to unhealthy food promotions at school and in communities, often replacing healthier dietary choices. The organization criticizes the misconception that physical activity alone can counteract the adverse effects of poor diets.

The report calls for urgent measures, including stricter advertising restrictions, taxes on sugary foods and drinks, and policies promoting access to fresh produce. It also notes that obesity levels in middle-income countries are rising rapidly, with some Pacific islands experiencing rates above 37%. UNICEF urges governments worldwide to take decisive actions to address this public health crisis and protect future generations from the double burden of undernutrition and obesity.