Florida Atlantic: A Global Health Emergency

Childhood obesity has nearly doubled in prevalence since 1990, now impacting every continent. While the United States has the highest rate, the issue has reached epidemic levels globally, with devastating consequences for health and well-being.

Southern Europe — including Greece, Italy and Spain — reports obesity rates of 10 to 15% among children, while Eastern Europe is seeing rapid increases that could soon rival these numbers. Asia accounts for nearly half of all overweight children under the age of 5, and Africa holds one-quarter. In Latin America, 20% of children under age 20 are overweight. Many developing countries now grapple with the dual burden of childhood obesity and malnutrition.

“Pediatric overweight and obesity have reached epidemic levels in the U.S. and are becoming a pandemic globally,” said Charles H. Hennekens, M.D., first Sir Richard Doll Professor of Medicine and Preventive Medicine and senior academic advisor in Florida Atlantic University’s Charles E. Schmidt College of Medicine. “These conditions lead to high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes and lipid disorders, which contribute to metabolic syndrome. In adults, these issues significantly increase the risks of heart attacks, stroke and certain cancers — many of which are now occurring at younger ages.”

The commentary, published in The Maternal and Child Health Journal, highlights the rising prevalence of high body mass index (BMI) in children. Overweight preschoolers in the U.S., defined as those with a BMI exceeding the 85th percentile, are significantly more likely to remain overweight into adolescence. This challenges the misconception that children “outgrow” weight issues.

Physical inactivity, poor diets and sedentary behaviors are driving this crisis.

Reduced physical education in schools and excessive screen time contribute to children failing to meet recommended activity levels.

“Encouraging organized, enjoyable activities rather than competitive ones can help children achieve necessary physical activity levels,” said Hennekens.

Diet is another critical factor. High sugar and ultra-processed food consumption are major contributors to the epidemic. In the U.S., ultra-processed foods make up nearly 70% of children’s diets.

“Consumption of ultra-processed foods among children under 24 months is rising worldwide, triggering not only the potential for developing obesity but also decreased immunological protection,” Hennekens said.

The authors stress the need for multifaceted approaches. Schools can play a significant role by enhancing lunch nutritional standards and promoting healthy eating. However, external influences like social media and advertising complicate these efforts. Despite World Health Organization recommendations to limit food marketing to children, few countries enforce such measures effectively.

Collaboration between health care providers, public health practitioners, policymakers and communities is essential to reverse these troubling trends.

“The ultimate goal is prevention, but we must also focus on stabilizing rates and mitigating health risks,” said Hennekens, adding that failing to act risks an unprecedented global epidemic of childhood obesity, with severe long-term health consequences. “Coordinated efforts are needed to ensure a healthier future for children worldwide.”