Child obesity surpasses underweight cases worldwide, warns UNICEF Report

A recent UNICEF report revealed that for the first time, more school-age children and adolescents worldwide were obese than underweight, affecting 188 million young people globally. The study, covering data from over 190 countries, showed obesity rates exceeded underweight in every region except sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia. Over the past 25 years, the number of overweight children doubled from 194 million to 391 million, with a significant portion classified as obese. The highest obesity rates were recorded in Pacific Island nations and high-income countries like Chile, the United States, and the UAE also reported concerning figures. UNICEF linked the rise to aggressive marketing and increased consumption of ultra-processed foods high in sugar, salt, and unhealthy fats, replacing healthier options such as fruits and vegetables. While underweight rates decreased to 9.2%, undernutrition remained an issue for children under five in developing countries. The report urged governments worldwide to implement policies that promote healthy diets, restrict junk food marketing, and improve access to nutritious food for children's growth and development.