World Obesity Day is on March 4, and a new study from Lancet shows that more than half of the world’s overweight or obese adults live in just eight countries. This is part of a bigger problem, as global obesity rates have more than doubled since 1990. Today, over 2 billion people live with obesity.
The study says that 2.11 billion adults aged 25 and older, and 493 million children and young people aged 5 to 24, are overweight or obese. This is a big increase from 731 million adults and 198 million children in 1990. In 2021, more than half of all overweight or obese adults were living in just eight countries.
Countries With The Highest Obesity Rates
More than half of the adults who are overweight or obese live in these eight countries: China (402 million), India (180 million), the US (172 million), Brazil (88 million), Russia (71 million), Mexico (58 million), Indonesia (52 million), and Egypt (41 million).
- China: 402 million
- India: 180 million
- US: 172 million
- Brazil: 88 million
- Russia: 71 million
- Mexico: 58 million
- Indonesia: 52 million
- Egypt: 41 million
Obesity Rates: India Vs US
As of March 3, 2025, the population of the US is about 346.7 million, while India has a population of around 1.46 billion. According to the study, 172 million Americans (49.7%) are overweight or obese, while 180 million Indians (12.4%) face the same issue.
Importance and Impact of the Study
The number of overweight and obese people has grown a lot in every part of the world from 1990 to 2021. This shows that current efforts to reduce obesity have not been successful, especially for children and teenagers.
Why This Study Matters?
The number of overweight and obese people has grown significantly around the world from 1990 to 2021, showing that current efforts to stop this problem have not worked, especially for children and teenagers. The number of people with obesity is expected to keep growing in every part of the world. Major changes are expected between 2022 and 2030, so urgent actions are needed to tackle this public health crisis.
By 2050, more than half of all adults and about one-third of all children and young people worldwide will be overweight or obese. This could lead to early deaths, diseases, and huge pressure on healthcare systems. The report warns that about 3.8 billion adults (over age 25) and 746 million children and young people will be affected by obesity by 2050. Almost 60% of adults over 25 are expected to be overweight or obese by then.
World Obesity Day 2025
As we observe World Obesity Day 2025, it’s clear that obesity is a growing global Problem. The numbers are rising, and urgent action is needed to prevent more people from facing health issues. By making healthier choices, supporting better policies, and raising awareness, we can work together to fight this crisis. Let’s all take steps today for a healthier tomorrow.
