World Obesity Day has been commemorated every March 4 since 2015.
This is done to raise awareness about obesity and promote ways to prevent and treat it.
Similarly, this commemoration is done to inspire and support real action to help people achieve and maintain a healthy weight, and thus change the global obesity crisis.
The purpose of this date is to raise awareness, promote advocacy, improve policies and share experiences.
Our activities reached more than 6 million people in 2016, another 8 million in 2017 and more than 10 million in 2018.
The last commemoration of World Obesity Day in 2019 was October 11.
The new date starts with the 4th World Obesity Day in 2021, when we reach more than 6 billion people and with your help we can continue to grow year after year.
World Obesity Day: outlook for 2035
Statistics show that obesity is increasing worldwide.
However, efforts to address it remain a challenge due to misconceptions about the condition itself and the impact on health.
| 1.9 billion The number of people around the world who will live with obesity | $4.32 trillion Estimated global economic impact of overweight and obesity | 100% increase Childhood obesity is expected to increase by 100% between 2020 and 2035 | 1 in 4 It is expected that 1 in 4 of us will live with obesity. |
Obesity in Massachusetts
| More than half of adults and 1 in 4 high school students are overweight or obese | African American and Hispanic adults were 43% and 40% more likely to be obese. | More than $3.5 billion in medical costs in Massachusetts are due to adult obesity |
Let’s join together to raise awareness, take action and work towards a healthier and happier future for all.
To commemorate World Obesity Day 2023, health organizations and professionals emphasize the importance of preventing and controlling obesity.
This includes promoting healthy eating habits, increasing physical activity levels and accessing treatment and support services provided by organizations, health centers, hospitals, among others worldwide.
In many countries, policies related to this scourge have been strengthened and implemented, such as product labeling, teaching in schools and universities, and even public investment to promote healthier environments, such as bicycle lanes and recreational spaces.
The key lies in maintaining healthy habits
As with most chronic conditions and diseases, obesity can also be prevented by adopting healthy habits and making gradual lifestyle changes:
- A healthy diet should include a variety of nutrient-rich foods, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins and healthy fats.
- Avoid or limit high-calorie, low-nutrient foods and beverages, such as sugary drinks, fast food and processed snacks.
- Regular exercise can help you maintain a healthy weight, reduce your risk of chronic disease, and improve your overall health and well-being.
- Spending too much time sitting and in front of a screen can lead to weight gain and obesity. Try to take frequent breaks from sitting; get up and stretch frequently and limit screen time, especially before bedtime.
- Sleep plays an important role in regulating appetite and metabolism, and lack of sleep is associated with weight gain and obesity. Get seven to eight hours of sleep each night and establish a consistent sleep schedule.
- Chronic stress can lead to overeating and weight gain. Find healthy ways to manage stress, such as meditation, deep breathing and exercise.
- Making lifestyle changes can be difficult, but having the support of friends, family or a health professional can help you stay motivated and on track.
Celebrating World Obesity Day can help reduce stigma and increase understanding and compassion for people living with this condition.
It can also encourage community collaboration contributing to a healthier and happier future for all.
Our sources: https://www.worldobesityday.org/, https://www.cdc.gov/
Disclaimer:
Information on the My Health Fair website should not be construed as professional advice or medical recommendations.Readers should direct any questions regarding personal health care to licensed physicians or other appropriate health care professionals.