World Obesity Day, which is celebrated every year on March 4, is organized to raise awareness of individuals and societies against obesity, to take preventive measures and to promote effective treatment methods. The World Health Organization (WHO) and various health organizations emphasize that obesity has become a global epidemic and draw attention to the importance of multidisciplinary approaches.
Obesity is a Global Public Health Problem
According to WHO data, more than 650 million adults worldwide are classified as obese and 1.9 billion adults as overweight. Childhood obesity is also increasing rapidly, with more than 39 million children under 5 years of age recorded as overweight or obese in 2022. Obesity is directly linked to type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, some types of cancer and psychological disorders.
“Environmental regulations that promote a sustainable diet and physical activity play a critical role in the fight against obesity. In addition, education and awareness campaigns should be increased to prevent wrong eating habits.”
New Strategies and Policies
As part of World Obesity Day, health authorities, governments and academia recommend the following measures to combat obesity:
- Healthy food policies: Reduce consumption of processed foods, regulate food labeling and increase access to healthy foods.
- Promoting physical activity: Increase walking paths and sports areas in urban planning.
- Education and awareness raising: Raising public awareness about the long-term effects of obesity.
- Medical and psychological support: Multidisciplinary approaches and development of individualized programs in obesity treatment.
Conclusion and Future Perspective
Obesity is considered a complex disease that threatens individual and public health. Experts emphasize that obesity can be prevented not only through individual efforts but also through the joint action of governments and societies. Awareness activities on the occasion of World Obesity Day are recognized as one of the important steps towards a healthy future.
