UNICEF: The number of obese children in the world has surpassed that of underweight children

The United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) has released striking data on child health. For the first time, the number of obese children in the world has surpassed the number of underweight children.

According to the report, approximately 188 million children and adolescents aged 5-19 are obese. This equates to one in every 10 children. The total number of those considered overweight has reached 391 million. This equates to one in every five children being overweight.

Causes: Cheap and processed foods

According to experts, the primary driver of the rise in obesity is the proliferation of cheap, high-calorie processed foods. Traditional eating habits are being replaced by fast food and packaged goods, which in turn increases the risk of diabetes, heart disease, and cancer in children.

Warning from UNICEF

"Nutritious and affordable food is a right for every child. Obesity is a growing threat to children's health and development," said UNICEF Executive Director Catherine Russell.

According to the report, obesity is expected to cost the global economy $ 4 trillion annually by 2035. UNICEF called on governments to ban processed foods in school cafeterias, impose additional taxes on unhealthy foods and drinks, and improve access to healthy products.