The COVID-19 epidemic is still harming the whole world, causing the horrible consequences of infectious illnesses. But obesity is a first-rate public fitness subject that is going past bacteria and viruses.  Although it isn't strictly speaking a deadly disease within the traditional sense, its enormous occurrence and steady upward push suggest it warrants comparable interest and response.

The Unsettling Data: An International Burden

In 2016, over 1.9 billion people (18 years and older) had been obese, with over 650 million of them being obese, consistent with the World Health Organisation (WHO).  This startling statistic means that 13% of adults globally are categorized as overweight and 39% of adults worldwide as obese.

These numbers are even greater alarming in light of the growing range of kids beneath five who are labeled as overweight or overweight in 2020—and predicted 39 million kids below the age of five.

Obesity impacts both industrialized and bad nations, irrespective of geographic barriers.  High-profits countries might also be at war with challenges related to sedentary life and excessive calorie consumption, whilst low- and middle-income nations are afflicted by the "double burden" of weight problems and malnutrition as a result of intricate socioeconomic variables.

The Effects on Health: A Domino Effect

Not only is obesity a cosmetic issue, but it also poses a serious risk to many chronic medical diseases.  Obesity is associated with heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, and some malignancies. Globally, these NCDs are the main causes of death and disability. Being overweight strains joints, which raises the possibility of osteoarthritis and back discomfort. Obesity and depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem are frequently linked. 

The Economic Effect: A Significant Weight

The medical expenses linked to obesity are enormous.  According to WHO estimates, obesity cost the world economy US$ 2.8 trillion in 2017.  Healthcare systems around the world are strained by this burden, which takes funds away from other vital areas.

The effects go beyond medical care. For businesses and governments, lost production as a result of obesity-related illnesses and disabilities results in financial losses.

Beyond Individual Decision-Making: Tackle the Fundamental Causes

Although personal lifestyle choices certainly have an impact, it is oversimplified to attribute obesity to individual behavior. Fresh fruits, vegetables, and healthful whole grains are frequently hard to come by, especially in low-income areas. In contrast, inexpensive, processed meals that are heavy in calories, sugar, and bad fats are widely available. Less physical activity and more screen time are common characteristics of modern living. Gaining weight is facilitated by this combo.

Final Thought: Time to Take Action

Obesity is a global public health pandemic with far-reaching effects, not just a personal health issue.  We can all contribute towards a healthier future by recognising its complexity, addressing the underlying causes, and putting comprehensive answers into practice at different levels.  Recall that the goal is to establish a supportive and sustainable environment that enables people to make healthy decisions for themselves and future generations, not to find a quick fix.