A new study released on Tuesday warns that nearly 60% of adults and one-third of children worldwide will be overweight or obese by 2050 unless immediate action is taken. The research, published in The Lancet medical journal, paints a bleak picture of an escalating global health crisis that has already seen a rise from 929 million overweight or obese individuals in 1990 to 2.6 billion in 2021.
Using data from 204 countries, the study’s authors predict that by 2050, the number of overweight or obese adults will soar to 3.8 billion, representing 60% of the global adult population. In addition, childhood obesity is expected to rise by 121%, with North Africa, the Middle East, Latin America, and the Caribbean being the regions most affected.
The study emphasises that without strong governmental intervention to promote healthier diets and lifestyles, the world’s healthcare systems will face immense strain, particularly as an increasing number of older adults suffer from obesity-related conditions.
However, the researchers maintain that it is not too late to reverse this trend. Co-author Jessica Kerr stressed the need for stronger political commitment to create sustainable global food systems and to improve nutrition, physical activity, and public spaces to combat obesity.
While poor diets and sedentary lifestyles are primary contributors, the study also highlights the need for further investigation into the underlying causes, particularly among socially disadvantaged groups who are disproportionately affected by obesity.
