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A recent UNICEF report reveals a significant shift in global child nutrition trends, showing that for the first time, more children worldwide are obese than underweight. The report highlights that nearly one in ten school-age children are now living with obesity. This trend is seen even in developing countries where malnutrition has traditionally been a problem.
According to the report, titled "Feeding Profit: How Food Environments are Failing Children," the prevalence of obesity among children aged five to nineteen has increased from 3% in 2000 to 9.4% in 2022. In contrast, the percentage of underweight children in the same age group has decreased from nearly 13% to 9.2%. The report, which analyzed data from nearly 200 countries, attributes the rise in obesity to the widespread marketing and consumption of ultra-processed foods and sugary drinks.
UNICEF Executive Director Catherine Russell stated, "Obesity is a growing concern that can impact the health and development of children." The report warns that without interventions, the economic impact of obesity could surpass $4 trillion annually by 2035.
The report also highlights regional disparities, with Pacific Island countries like Niue and the Cook Islands showing some of the highest obesity rates globally. In high-income countries, such as the United States and Chile, obesity rates among children remain high.
UNICEF is calling for urgent action from governments and civil society to transform food environments and ensure access to nutritious diets for children. The report suggests that policies supporting parents and caretakers in accessing healthy foods are essential to combatting this issue.
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