China’s National Health Commission has released its first plan to improve how obesity is identified and treated.
Recently, there has been a noticeable increase in the number of overweight and obese people in the country, as stated in the new document.
Obesity is now considered both a separate health problem and a major cause of many long-term health issues.
According to the report, it ranks as the sixth most significant factor leading to death and disability in China.
The guidelines provide detailed instructions on various areas, including clinical nutrition, medication, surgery, psychological and behavioural therapies, and exercise programmes.
These measures aim to ensure high-quality healthcare services and protect the rights of those seeking treatment, as explained by Zhang Zhongtao, deputy chief of Beijing Friendship Hospital and leader of the committee that created the guidelines.
Health specialists point out that most obesity cases are caused by unhealthy lifestyle choices. They emphasise that adopting healthy habits, such as eating carefully and being physically active, is the best way to manage weight and improve long-term health.