Obesity is not a global epidemic as has long been claimed by international health experts.
This is the conclusion of a global study that challenges the idea that obesity is spreading uniformly across the world. The research, published in the scientific journal Nature, shows that obesity rates have stabilized in many wealthy Western European countries, while in low- and middle-income countries they are increasing at alarming rates.
The study analyzed data from 232 million people across 200 countries, covering the period from 1980 to 2024. According to the researchers, countries such as France, Italy, and Portugal have begun to show slight declines in childhood obesity rates.
Unfortunately, Albania is following an upward trend. According to official data, 1 in 3 children aged 7 to 9 are overweight, while 14% are considered obese. In addition, 20% of adults are living with obesity, and experts warn that these figures are expected to rise further in the coming years.
Researchers say that obesity is linked to the consumption of ultra-processed foods, lack of physical activity, and economic inequalities. They warn that without concrete measures, many countries — including those in the Balkans — risk facing long-term consequences for their healthcare systems.
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