Today 02:44
The silent epidemic: alarming data. The World Health Organization estimates that obesity has tripled since 1975. In our region, one in four adults is obese. As for children, the situation is equally serious: Latin America has one of the highest rates of childhood obesity in the world. The nutritional transition, characterized by the abandonment of traditional diets in favor of ultra-processed products, has exacerbated this crisis. Sugary drinks and fast food flood markets and homes, while fresh food remains inaccessible to many families.
Overweight and obesity are associated with chronic non-communicable diseases such as type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. However, beyond the individual burden, obesity generates an enormous economic impact. The cost of health care and loss of productivity due to diseases associated with being overweight represent a threat to the development of our countries.
Public policies: progress and setbacks. Despite the scale of the problem, policy responses have been insufficient. Some countries in the region have placed front warning labels on ultra-processed products. Chile, Mexico and Ecuador are examples of progress in regulating the food industry. However, the power of business lobbies still hinders many measures that could make a difference.
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Fiscal policies, such as taxes on sugary drinks, have been shown to be effective in reducing consumption of these products. However, barriers remain to implementing these strategies on a large scale. Commercial interests conflict with the right to health, and the food industry is investing millions in misinformation to avoid stricter regulations.
Inequality and obesity: an undeniable link Obesity is also a reflection of social and economic inequality. In the most vulnerable communities, access to healthy foods is limited. This ultra-premium treatment is usually the only affordable option. While some policies prioritize economics over well-being, millions of people see their health at risk due to a diet that perpetuates obesity as a result of poverty.
Nutrition education remains a privilege. Without access to clear information and fair prices for healthy foods, the population remains stuck in a vicious cycle. Public health cannot depend on individual choices when the food environment is designed to encourage the consumption of harmful products.
The role of civil society. Civil society has played a key role. Local and international organizations have pushed for stricter policies and enhanced awareness campaigns. Activism has achieved major changes, but the battle is not over yet. Demand for stronger regulation must continue.
It is necessary to strengthen community networks and nutrition education programs in schools and health centres. Citizen participation is key to reversing this crisis. It is about transforming sustainable food systems from communities.
Looking to the future: urgent solutions. The obesity problem will not be solved by rhetoric or general recommendations. Strict policies are required to reduce the impact of the food industry and promote sustainable food systems. Investing in local production of healthy foods, promoting agroecology, and strictly controlling misleading advertising must be priorities.
It is time to challenge policymakers, the food industry and the power structures that perpetuate this crisis. The health of future generations depends on what we do today.