1 in 3 People Worldwide are Obese or Overweight

Obesity is a major public health concern, and its prevalence is increasing worldwide. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), over 1.9 billion adults were overweight in 2016, of which over 650 million were obese.

This means that nearly one in three adults worldwide are either overweight or obese. The problem is particularly acute in developed countries, where over 50% of the population is overweight or obese.

Health Consequences of Obesity

Obesity is a major risk factor for a number of chronic diseases, including:

• Heart disease
• Stroke
• Type 2 Diabetes
• Cancer
• Sleep apnea
• Osteoarthritis

Obesity can also lead to a number of other health problems, such as depression, anxiety, and social isolation.

Economic Consequences of Obesity

In addition to its health consequences, obesity also has a significant economic impact.

• Obesity is estimated to cost the global economy over $2 trillion per year.
• In the United States, obesity is estimated to cost over $147 billion per year in healthcare costs.
• Obesity is also associated with lost productivity at work and increased absenteeism.

The economic consequences of obesity are a major concern for governments and businesses around the world.

Causes of Obesity

Obesity is caused by a complex interaction of factors, including:

• Diet: A diet high in calories, saturated fat, and sugar can lead to weight gain.
• Physical inactivity: A lack of physical activity can also lead to weight gain.
• Genetics: Some people are more likely to be obese than others due to their genes.
• Environmental factors: The built environment can also play a role in obesity. For example, a lack of access to healthy food and safe places to exercise can make it difficult to maintain a healthy weight.

Obesity is a complex problem with no easy solutions. However, there are a number of things that can be done to address the problem, including:

• Promoting healthy eating habits
• Increasing physical activity
• Creating supportive environments
• Addressing the underlying causes of obesity

By working together, we can create a healthier future for everyone.

Who is Most at Risk for Obesity?

Certain groups of people are more likely to be obese than others, including:

• People who are physically inactive
• People who have a family history of obesity
• People who live in poverty
• People who live in certain regions of the world, such as the United States and Europe

Common Mistakes to Avoid

There are a number of common mistakes that people make when trying to lose weight, including:

• Going on a crash diet
• Cutting out entire food groups
• Exercising too much too soon
• Giving up too easily

These mistakes can make it difficult to lose weight and keep it off. If you are trying to lose weight, it is important to talk to your doctor or a registered dietitian to develop a plan that is right for you.

Getting Help

If you are struggling with obesity, there are a number of resources available to help you.

• Your doctor can provide you with information and support.
• Registered dietitians can help you create a healthy eating plan.
• Exercise physiologists can help you develop an exercise program.
• Support groups can provide you with encouragement and motivation.

There is no one-size-fits-all solution to obesity. However, by working with your healthcare team, you can develop a plan that is right for you and reach your weight loss goals.

Tables

Table 1: Prevalence of Obesity by Country

Table 2: Health Consequences of Obesity

Table 3: Economic Consequences of Obesity

Table 4: Risk Factors for Obesity