Editorial | More must be done in Hong Kong’s battle against obesity
Children in Hong Kong are among those falling victim to one of today’s greatest health challenges, which calls for a concerted effort by all
The growth in the number of people around the world who are overweight or obese is of increasing concern.
A study released last week by medical journal The Lancet, coinciding with World Obesity Day, warned 60 per cent of adults and a third of all children will fall into this category by 2050, unless governments take action. It is a deeply troubling prediction.
The report found that the number of overweight or obese people rose from 929 million in 1990 to 2.6 billion in 2021. The trend can no longer be seen as purely a problem in the West. It applies to developing countries, too.
There is a need for coordinated and robust action to head off what The Lancet described as one of the greatest health challenges of the century. The World Obesity Day website estimates the economic impact will be US$4.32 billion by 2035.
Overweight children are a particular concern. Experts in Hong Kong have called on parents to act as role models for a healthy lifestyle and not to reward their children with fast food or sweets.
It is important to establish good eating habits at a young age. Exercise is vital and our children do not get enough of it.