Globally, 1 in 5 kids are now overweight or obese

Embargoed until: Publicly released: 2024-06-11 01:00

Australia; New Zealand; Pacific; International

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Globally around one in five kids and teens are now overweight or obese, with rates of obesity 1.5 times higher over the last 10 years compared to the previous decade. The study found that almost 6% of Aussie kids were obese compared to the global average of 8.5%. The authors say that coordinated global action and national-level programs are paramount to understanding, preventing and managing child and adolescent obesity.

Media release

From: JAMA

Global Prevalence of Overweight and Obesity in Children and Adolescents

About The Study: This study’s findings indicated 1 of 5 children or adolescents experienced excess weight and that rates of excess weight varied by regional income and Human Development Index. Excess weight among children and adolescents was associated with a mix of inherent, behavioral, environmental, and sociocultural influences that need the attention and committed intervention of primary care professionals, clinicians, health authorities, and the general public.

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Journal/
conference: JAMA Pediatrics

Research:Paper

Organisation/s: Sichuan University, China

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