Health/Lifestyle Desk: The recently published World Obesity Atlas 2026 states that obesity among children is rising at an exceptional rate. Globally the presence of obesity among school aged children has spiked from 4% in 1975 to 20% in 2022.
After studying the prevalence of obesity and overweight among children in 196 countries it found that for the first time in history more children around the world will be living with obesity than being overweight. And the fastest increase of the problem is seen in the low and middle-income countries where most of the world’s children live.
As a consequence of the problem the report also indicates that many children around the world are already exhibiting early signs of several serious ailments like heart diseases, stroke, diabetes, and liver issues.
By highlighting this in context of India the report says that obesity and overweight problem among children in India has risen from over 5 million in 2000 to over 40 million in 2026, and set to cross 50 million by 2040.
It also says that around 3.8% of children were obese in India in 2025, which could be 4.5% in 2030. And if it is not adequately managed it could climb to 6.1% by 2040. Indeed, the report has highlighted a concerning situation in relation to obesity and overweight among Indian children.
Being overweight could be highly detrimental to the overall health of children and adults. If it is not managed effectively it could translate into obesity. This as a result could lead to many long-term ailments that can reduce the quality of life.
A sedentary lifestyle with uncontrolled consumption of ultra-processed and sugary food are responsible for this. A country like India that is preoccupied with grades and academics should also encourage its children the importance of living a healthy lifestyle through physical activities and nutritious eating habits. Alternatively, the government should promote greater awareness about nutrition and fitness and put higher taxes on ultra-processed packaged food and sugary drinks. Further, it should make it mandatory for food companies to adequately label the contents of the food and its associated health risks. Tackling obesity requires a collective effort.
Source: Global Obesity Observatory
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