A new study published in The Lancet reveals a concerning trend: nine out of the ten countries with the highest obesity rates among adults are Pacific island nations.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), which contributed to the study, over one billion people worldwide are now classified as obese. This number has doubled for adults and quadrupled for children and adolescents since 1990.

The Pacific region faces a particularly dire situation. Overweight and obesity, along with related non-communicable diseases (NCDs), have been steadily rising across all age groups in recent decades, becoming a leading cause of premature death and disability.

"The drivers of obesity are complex," explains Dr. Mark Jacobs, WHO Representative to the South Pacific. "Unhealthy food options are often cheaper and more readily available, heavily promoted through advertising, while healthy alternatives may be scarce and expensive, especially due to the challenges of climate change."

Beyond dietary factors, cultural norms and lack of safe exercise spaces further contribute to the issue.

In response, Pacific health ministers have committed to a series of actions to address childhood and youth obesity. These actions emphasize collaboration across government sectors, including environment, trade, finance, and agriculture. Community engagement through civil society organizations, youth groups, and faith-based institutions is also crucial.

"We can only overcome this challenge by working together across all levels of government and society," Dr. Jacobs emphasizes.

WHO recommends a multi-pronged approach, including:

-Implementing taxes on sugary drinks and other unhealthy products to make them less affordable.

-Increasing accessibility and affordability of healthy food and drinks.

-Promoting healthy eating during pregnancy and breastfeeding for the first six months of life.

-Establishing healthy habits in childhood through regular weight and height monitoring.

-Shifting cultural norms around healthy eating and promoting the value of preparing nutritious meals for loved ones.

-Creating safe and enjoyable spaces for physical activity.

WHO is actively supporting Pacific island nations in promoting healthier lifestyles through initiatives like the Health Promoting Schools program and by aiding healthcare workers in managing NCDs. This work is made possible through funding from the European Union and New Zealand. (ILKHA)