Obesity – A Growing Health Concern Worldwide
Obesity is becoming an increasingly common health issue across the globe. But first, let’s understand what is obesity? Obesity is defined as an abnormal or excessive fat accumulation that may impair health. It is usually measured using the Body Mass Index (BMI), where a score of 30 or higher indicates obesity. The prevalence of obesity has nearly tripled since 1975, and it now affects people in both developed and developing nations. Some key facts about overweight and obesity underline the gravity of the problem. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), more than 1.9 billion adults were overweight in 2016, and 650 million were obese. This makes obesity one of the most prevalent lifestyle-related health issues globally. Childhood obesity is another alarming concern. Sedentary lifestyles, fast food culture, and reduced outdoor activities contribute significantly. The effects are not limited to physical health; they also extend to mental health, social well-being, and productiv...