Obesity in the Americas

Obersity is common in the Caribbean and Central America. Photo by canweallgo on UnSplash.

Introduction to the Problem

The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) is leading a project with nine countries in the Americas to fight obesity.

This region has the highest rates of overweight and obesity in the world. Currently, 67.5% of adults and 37.6% of children and adolescents (ages 5 to 19) are overweight or obese. This increases the risk of serious diseases, making urgent action necessary.

The WHO Acceleration Plan to Stop Obesity

At the 75th World Health Assembly in 2022, countries approved the WHO Acceleration Plan to Stop Obesity. This plan aims to slow rising obesity rates through regulations, taxes, and policies across different sectors.

Nine countries in the Americas—Argentina, Barbados, Brazil, Chile, Mexico, Panama, Peru, Trinidad and Tobago, and Uruguay—are leading this effort. Their experiences will help shape future policies in the region.

The Growing Problem of Obesity

The problem is growing. Since 1990, adult obesity rates in the Americas have risen by 52%, jumping from 44.4% to 67.5% in 2022. If this trend continues, by 2030, 73.2% of adults in the region will be overweight or obese.

“These numbers are shocking, and they represent real people suffering from diabetes, heart disease, and cancer,” said Dr. Anselm Hennis of PAHO. “Without strong action, preventable diseases and early deaths will increase.”

Strategies to Combat Obesity

To combat obesity, PAHO and these countries are following WHO recommendations. Their strategies include warning labels on food packaging, restrictions on unhealthy food marketing, support for breastfeeding, school food regulations, and taxes to encourage healthy eating. They are also promoting physical activity in schools and public spaces while improving primary health care.

Monitoring progress is key, as each country has different needs and resources. Some nations have already started their plans. Chile, with the region’s highest obesity rate (78.8%), launched the first National Plan for Childhood and Adolescent Obesity Prevention. Mexico and Panama are finalizing their plans as well.

Source

Source: PAHO.

Conclusion

The fight against obesity in the Americas requires immediate attention and collective action. With the WHO Acceleration Plan to Stop Obesity and the efforts of the nine leading countries, there is hope for a healthier future. However, it is crucial that all countries in the region take part in this effort to combat the growing problem of obesity and reduce the risk of serious diseases.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the current obesity rate in the Americas?

Currently, 67.5% of adults and 37.6% of children and adolescents (ages 5 to 19) are overweight or obese in the Americas.

Which countries are leading the effort to combat obesity?

Nine countries in the Americas—Argentina, Barbados, Brazil, Chile, Mexico, Panama, Peru, Trinidad and Tobago, and Uruguay—are leading this effort.

What strategies are being implemented to combat obesity?

Strategies include warning labels on food packaging, restrictions on unhealthy food marketing, support for breastfeeding, school food regulations, and taxes to encourage healthy eating, as well as promoting physical activity in schools and public spaces and improving primary health care.