World Obesity Day: Childhood obesity isn’t just about food—it’s about the world we’ve built

Obesity has become a global health crisis with 2.5 billion adults aged 18 and older categorised as overweight in 2022, according to the WHO. Of these, over 890 million were living with obesity, accounting for 43% of the global adult population (43% of men and 44% of women). The prevalence varied by region, ranging from 31% in South-East Asia and Africa to 67% in the Americas.

Globally, 16% of adults were obese, with rates more than doubling since 1990. Childhood obesity is also on the rise, with 37 million children under five classified as overweight, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. Africa recorded a 23% increase in overweight children since 2000, while nearly half of the affected children worldwide were in Asia.

Firstpost spoke to Dr. Deep Goel, Principal Director & HOD - Surgical Gastroenterology, Advanced Laparoscopic & Bariatric Surgery, BLK - MAX Super Speciality Hospital, Delhi to shed light on various aspects of India’s silent epidemic.

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Top risk factors contributing to obesity in children

Several factors contribute to childhood obesity and addressing them requires a multi-faceted approach:

Poor diet/high-risk food intake:

The consumption of calorie-dense, processed foods, sugary beverages and fast food significantly increases the risk of obesity. Parents should encourage home-cooked meals with balanced nutrients, including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins.

Increased screen time:

Excessive use of mobile phones, tablets, and television reduces physical activity and promotes mindless snacking. Setting screen time limits and promoting interactive play can help counteract this issue.

Lack of physical activity:

Children today spend less time playing outdoors, leading to lower calorie expenditure. Encouraging sports, dance, and other physical activities can promote a healthier lifestyle.

Genetics & family influence:

While genetics can predispose a child to obesity, lifestyle choices play a crucial role. A family-wide approach to healthy eating and active living can prevent weight-related issues.

Stress, lack of sleep & emotional eating:

Poor sleep patterns and stress can trigger hormonal imbalances that lead to weight gain. Ensuring proper sleep hygiene and helping children develop healthy coping mechanisms can prevent emotional eating.

How does social media influence childhood obesity?

Social media plays a significant role in shaping children’s eating habits and lifestyle choices:

Promoting unhealthy food choices: Children are exposed to visually appealing advertisements promoting junk food and sugary drinks. These marketing strategies make unhealthy options more attractive.

Increased screen time: Prolonged exposure to screens not only reduces physical activity but also leads to excessive snacking, further contributing to obesity.

Sedentary lifestyle: The rise of online gaming, streaming platforms and social media interactions has reduced physical engagement in outdoor activities.

What parents can do:

Limit screen time: Establish screen-free zones at home and encourage alternative activities like reading, art, and outdoor play.

Encourage healthy eating habits: Teach children to make mindful food choices and involve them in meal planning and preparation.

Promote open conversations: Educate children about the impact of advertising and encourage discussions about nutrition and healthy living.

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What are some common myths about weight loss and obesity in adults?

Misconceptions about obesity and weight loss often lead to ineffective or harmful strategies. Some common myths include:

You can lose weight quickly and keep it off forever.

Carbs make you gain weight.

You have to exercise for hours every day to lose weight.

Skipping meals will help you lose weight.

Diet pills and supplements are an easy fix.

Key warning signs of obesity in children & role of early interventions

Early detection of obesity can prevent long-term health complications. Warning signs include:

Rapid weight gain: A sudden increase in weight that is disproportionate to height growth can be an indicator of obesity.

Difficulty in physical activity: Struggling with basic activities like running, climbing stairs or prolonged walking may suggest excess weight.

Frequent fatigue & sleep issues: Poor sleep quality and constant tiredness can be linked to obesity-related disorders such as sleep apnea.

Shortness of breath: Difficulty breathing, even with mild exertion is a sign that excess weight is affecting lung function.

Early interventions: Encouraging physical activity, maintaining a balanced diet, ensuring proper sleep, and consulting a pediatrician when necessary can help prevent obesity-related complications.

What are the latest breakthrough treatments for obesity in adults?

Medical advancements in obesity treatment offer new hope for patients:

Medications: Certain FDA-approved drugs help in weight management, but they are only prescribed for specific individuals under medical supervision.

Surgical interventions: Bariatric surgery, including gastric bypass and sleeve gastrectomy, is an option for those struggling with severe obesity. It is considered for individuals with a high BMI who have not responded to other treatments.

What are the biggest health risks associated with obesity and how can they be managed?

Obesity increases the risk of several chronic conditions:

Type 2 diabetes: Excess weight can lead to insulin resistance, increasing the risk of diabetes. Managing weight through diet and exercise can prevent or delay its onset.

Heart disease: Obesity contributes to high cholesterol and high blood pressure, increasing the likelihood of cardiovascular diseases. Lifestyle changes and medical interventions can mitigate these risks.

Hypertension: Excess fat accumulation strains the circulatory system, leading to persistent high blood pressure.

Sleep Apnea: Obesity can cause airway obstruction during sleep, leading to breathing difficulties. Weight loss and medical treatment can improve symptoms.

Joint Issues: Excess weight puts stress on joints, leading to conditions like osteoarthritis. Regular exercise and maintaining a healthy weight can reduce joint damage.

Why are obesity rates rising among young adults and how can this trend be reversed?

Obesity rates among young adults are on the rise due to several interconnected factors:

Unhealthy diets: The easy availability of high-calorie, processed foods has led to poor dietary habits. Reducing fast food intake and prioritizing home-cooked meals can help.

Sedentary lifestyles: With increasing work-from-home culture and digital entertainment, physical activity has significantly declined. Incorporating regular exercise and active breaks is essential.

Increased screen time: Prolonged exposure to digital devices contributes to weight gain and poor sleep quality. Setting screen time limits and encouraging outdoor activities can counteract this issue.

Mental health & stress: Stress and anxiety often lead to emotional eating and unhealthy food choices. Mindfulness practices, therapy, and support groups can aid in better weight management.