Global Obesity Rates Surpass Underweight for First Time Among Children Worldwide

Global Child Nutrition Shift: More Kids Obese Than Underweight for First Time For the first time in recorded history, more children worldwide are living with obesity than underweight, according to a new report by UNICEF. The shift marks a significant milestone in global nutrition, highlighting the growing concern of childhood obesity and the need for targeted interventions. The report, released on September 15, 2025, reveals that approximately 9.4 percent of school-age children (ages 5-19) are obese, compared to 9.2 percent who are underweight. This reversal is a stark contrast to the situation 25 years ago, when nearly 13 percent of kids were underweight and just 3 percent had obesity. "This shift in child nutrition is a wake-up call for policymakers, healthcare professionals, and parents," said Dr. Maria Neira, Director of the Department of Environment, Climate Change and Health at the World Health Organization (WHO). "We must acknowledge that both obesity and underweight are forms of malnutrition, which can have severe consequences on children's health and well-being." According to UNICEF, the rise in childhood obesity is largely driven by changes in dietary habits and lifestyle choices. Children are consuming more processed foods, sugary drinks, and saturated fats, while engaging in less physical activity. "The lines between underweight and obese have blurred," said Dr. Neira. "We need to focus on promoting healthy eating habits, increasing access to nutritious food, and encouraging regular physical activity from an early age." The report emphasizes the importance of addressing childhood obesity through a comprehensive approach that involves governments, healthcare systems, schools, and communities. "Preventing childhood obesity requires a multi-faceted strategy that includes education, policy changes, and community engagement," said Dr. Neira. "We must work together to create environments that support healthy lifestyles and prevent malnutrition in all its forms." As the global child nutrition landscape continues to evolve, experts stress the need for continued monitoring and research. "The shift from underweight to obese is a complex issue that requires ongoing study and analysis," said Dr. Neira. "We must remain vigilant and adapt our strategies to address this growing concern." The UNICEF report highlights the urgent need for policymakers and healthcare professionals to prioritize childhood nutrition and develop targeted interventions to prevent obesity and promote healthy lifestyles. Background: Childhood malnutrition has long been a pressing global issue, with underweight children often being the primary concern. However, over the past few decades, there has been a significant increase in childhood obesity rates worldwide. Additional Perspectives: Dr. Neira emphasized that both underweight and obese children require attention and support from healthcare professionals. "Children who are underweight may be at risk of stunted growth, weakened immune systems, and increased susceptibility to diseases," said Dr. Neira. "On the other hand, children with obesity are more likely to develop chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, and certain types of cancer." Current Status: The UNICEF report marks a critical turning point in global child nutrition efforts. "This shift highlights the need for policymakers, healthcare professionals, and parents to work together to address childhood malnutrition," said Dr. Neira. "We must prioritize prevention, education, and community engagement to create environments that support healthy lifestyles." Next Developments: The WHO and UNICEF will continue to monitor child nutrition trends and develop targeted interventions to address the growing concern of childhood obesity. As the global health landscape continues to evolve, experts stress the importance of ongoing research, collaboration, and education to prevent malnutrition in all its forms. *Reporting by Vox.*