An abnormal or excessive fat accumulation that presents a health risk. The World Health Organisation's (WHO) definition of obesity is that simple. However, if not careful, this can be a life-threatening condition too. Once upon a time, obesity was a problem only in high-income countries. However, even middle-income countries are battling overweight and obesity issues. According to a Lancet study, 12.5 million teenagers and children in India were obese in 2022 and the number is only growing.
On this year's World Obesity Day, WHO calls for a cohesive, cross-sector response to the obesity crisis. This year's campaign theme is 'Let's Talk About Obesity And...'. Meanwhile, how can we figure out whether someone is obese or simply overweight? Here's what WHO says:
The BMI categories for defining obesity vary by age and gender in infants, children, and adolescents.
1) Overweight is a BMI greater than or equal to 25, while obesity is a BMI greater than or equal to 30.
2) For children, age needs to be considered when defining overweight and obesity. For children under 5 years of age, overweight is weight-for-height greater than 2 standard deviations above the WHO Child Growth Standards median; and obesity is weight-for-height greater than 3 standard deviations above the WHO Child Growth Standards median.
Regardless, WHO says the complex disease can be prevented by following these steps:
1) Limit total fat and sugar intake
2) Eat more fruit, vegetables, whole grains and nuts
3) Do regular physical activity
4) In babies, exclusive breastfeeding up to 6 months can reduce the risk of infants becoming overweight
5) Avoid energy-dense foods
