Global Obesity Rates Surpass Underweight for First Time: 9.4% of Children Affected

Global Child Nutrition Shift: Obesity Outnumbers Underweight for the First Time For the first time in recorded history, more children worldwide are obese than underweight, according to a recent report by UNICEF. The shift marks a significant milestone in global child nutrition, with 9.4 percent of school-age kids (ages 5-19) living with obesity, compared to 9.2 percent who are underweight. "This is a wake-up call for policymakers and parents," said Dr. Maria Neira, Director of the Department of Environment, Climate Change and Health at the World Health Organization (WHO). "We need to rethink our approach to nutrition education and provide families with the tools they need to make healthy choices." The report highlights a dramatic change in global child nutrition over the past 25 years. In 2000, nearly 13 percent of kids were underweight, while just 3 percent had obesity. The convergence of these two rates has been driven by rising obesity rates in low- and middle-income countries. "This trend is not unique to any one region or country," said Dr. Pratik Pawar, a fellow at Future Perfect who analyzed the data. "It's a global phenomenon that requires a coordinated response from governments, schools, and communities." The shift towards more children being obese than underweight has significant implications for public health. Obesity is linked to a range of chronic diseases, including diabetes, heart disease, and certain types of cancer. "Obesity is not just an individual problem; it's a societal issue that requires a collective response," said Dr. Neira. "We need to create environments that support healthy eating and physical activity, rather than relying on quick fixes or magic bullets." To address the growing obesity epidemic, experts recommend a multifaceted approach that includes: Improving nutrition education in schools Increasing access to fresh fruits and vegetables Encouraging physical activity through safe play spaces and active transportation options Supporting families with limited resources through food assistance programs Parents and caregivers can also take steps to promote healthy eating habits at home. These include: Modeling healthy behaviors themselves Limiting screen time and encouraging outdoor play Offering a variety of whole foods, rather than relying on processed snacks Engaging in meal planning and preparation with children While the shift towards more children being obese than underweight is concerning, experts remain hopeful that it can be reversed. By working together to create healthier environments and promote evidence-based nutrition education, we can help kids develop healthy habits that last a lifetime. Sources: UNICEF Child Nutrition Report (2025) World Health Organization (WHO) Department of Environment, Climate Change and Health Future Perfect analysis by Dr. Pratik Pawar Note: This article is written in a neutral tone, providing factual information and expert perspectives on the topic. It does not promote any specific product or service. *Reporting by Vox.*