UNICEF has warned that obesity among children and teenagers has now surpassed undernourishment worldwide for the first time, marking a major global public health concern.
According to a new report released by the organization, rising consumption of ultra-processed foods and unhealthy eating habits are driving a sharp increase in obesity rates among people aged five to 19.
UNICEF estimates that nearly one in 10 children and adolescents globally will be living with obesity in 2025. The agency says easy access to processed foods, sugary drinks, and unhealthy snacks is becoming a major issue even in countries that still struggle with child undernutrition.
Catherine Russell said malnutrition is no longer limited to children being underweight. She noted that processed foods are increasingly replacing healthier options such as fruits, vegetables, and proteins, which are essential for physical growth, mental development, and overall health.
Data collected from nearly 190 countries shows that underweight rates among children and adolescents have gradually declined over the past two decades. However, during the same period, the number of overweight and obese youths has increased significantly.
The report states that obesity rates among individuals aged five to 19 have nearly tripled since 2000. In 2022, approximately 163 million children and adolescents worldwide were classified as obese.
UNICEF said aggressive marketing of unhealthy food products is playing a major role in the trend. Children are frequently exposed to advertisements for sugary beverages, salty snacks, and processed foods, particularly in schools and online environments.
The organization also pointed out that unhealthy processed foods are often cheaper and more accessible than fresh and nutritious alternatives, especially for low-income families.
Health experts warn that obesity in childhood can increase the risk of serious long-term health problems, including diabetes, heart disease, certain cancers, anxiety, and depression.
The issue is no longer limited to wealthy countries. While obesity rates remain high in developed nations such as the United States and Chile, rapid increases are also being reported in developing countries and Pacific island nations where imported processed foods are replacing traditional diets.
UNICEF stressed that the problem should not be blamed on children or families alone, but rather on broader societal and industry-related factors that shape food environments and consumer behavior.
The organization is now urging governments worldwide to introduce stronger measures, including restrictions on unhealthy food advertising, taxes on sugary products, and policies that support affordable access to healthier foods.
Experts say the report highlights a major shift in global nutrition challenges, where countries increasingly face the double burden of undernutrition and rising obesity at the same time.
Source: International health and United Nations reports