Spain is the country that has achieved the greatest decrease in obesity cases between 1990 and 2022, reaching a decrease of 4.6 percent, according to the World Heart 2025 report, developed by the World Heart Federation to analyze the evolution of obesity and cardiovascular disease (CVD).
During the analyzed period, obesity cases increased in almost all countries, while deaths doubled due to cardiovascular diseases related to an increase in body mass index (BMI). France, Moldova, and Lithuania are the only countries in the world, along with Spain, where there has been a decrease in cases, ranging from one to two percent among women.
However, the global trend of obesity was one of significant growth. In 2022, 878 million adults lived with obesity, four times more than the 194 million who lived with the disease in 1990. In this regard, the report refers to a study published in «Lancet», warning that if trends continue, almost two out of three adults aged 25 or older could be living with excess weight by 2050.
Regarding the global economic impact of obesity, the report suggests that in 2019 this was equivalent to 2.2 percent of the gross domestic product (GDP) and emphasizes that this figure could increase to over three percent by 2060 if the rise in obesity cases continues.
On the other hand, if coordinated evidence-based action manages to reverse the prevalence of obesity and excess weight to 2019 levels, it could result in savings of $2.2 trillion (1,957,824,000,000 euros) in annual costs between 2020 and 2060 worldwide.
Additionally, the document warns about the risks of obesity for the child population, as children with high BMI are 40% more likely than their peers to suffer from premature aging. The onset of obesity at a young age can significantly reduce life expectancy, while the psychological impact of childhood obesity is profound, being the main cause of bullying and discrimination in schools.
Public health measures «to address the growing global obesity crisis, governments must implement cost-effective public health measures to raise public awareness and reduce risk factors, recognizing that obesity is multifactorial and committing to providing comprehensive treatment options,» López-Jiméne clinic.
In this sense, the report appreciates the regulations introduced in countries such as Rwanda and Latvia or Japan and the United Kingdom, which have implemented limitations on the density of fast food outlets, as well as initiatives based on obesity and CVD.
The report also highlights the success of community projects, such as the «Hand Tu» project in New Zealand, which has provided support and guidance for effective disease management, including nutrition, promoting an increase in fruit and vegetable consumption among participants, along with an average 10% increase in physical activity.
Finally, the text underscores the stigma and discrimination that persists around obesity and has hindered efforts to combat obesity and CVD. Therefore, it is urgent to address this issue and support marginalized populations facing greater obstacles to a heart-healthy life.
«To address the growing implications of the obesity crisis, we urge governments worldwide to take specific actions and invest. Cesare is required.
