March 4 marks World Obesity Day, a date to reflect on one of the most alarming health crises of our time. Obesity is a public health issue with devastating consequences. In Latin America, the numbers continue to rise, driven by unequal food systems, ineffective policies, and a market that prioritizes profit over health. It is time to demand strong responses.
The Silent Epidemic: Alarming Data
The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that obesity has tripled since 1975. In our region, one in four adults lives with obesity. Among children, the situation is just as severe: Latin America has one of the highest childhood obesity rates in the world. The nutritional transition, marked by the abandonment of traditional diets in favor of ultra-processed products, has worsened this crisis. Sugary drinks and junk food flood markets and homes, while fresh foods remain inaccessible to many families.
Overweight and obesity are associated with non-communicable chronic diseases such as type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and certain types of cancer. However, beyond the individual burden, obesity has a colossal economic impact. The cost of healthcare and lost productivity due to weight-related illnesses poses a threat to the development of our countries.
Public Policies: Progress and Setbacks
Despite the magnitude of the problem, political responses have been insufficient. Some countries in the region have implemented front-of-package warning labels on ultra-processed products. Chile, Mexico, and Ecuador are examples of progress in regulating the food industry. However, the power of corporate lobbying continues to hinder many measures that could make a difference.
Fiscal policies, such as taxes on sugary drinks, have proven effective in reducing consumption. However, barriers still exist to implementing these strategies on a large scale. Commercial interests clash with the right to health, and the food industry invests millions in misinformation to avoid stricter regulations.
Inequality and Obesity: An Undeniable Link
Obesity is also a reflection of socioeconomic inequalities. In the most vulnerable communities, access to healthy food is limited. Ultra-processed foods are often the only affordable option. While some policies prioritize the economy over well-being, millions of people see their health compromised by a food system that perpetuates obesity as a consequence of poverty.
Nutritional education remains a privilege. Without access to clear information and fair prices for healthy food, the population remains trapped in a vicious cycle. Public health cannot depend on individual choices when the food environment is designed to promote the consumption of harmful products.
The Role of Civil Society
Civil society has taken on a fundamental role. Local and international organizations have pushed for stricter policies and promoted awareness campaigns. Activism has achieved significant changes, but the fight is far from over. The demand for stronger regulations must continue.
It is essential to strengthen community networks and food education programs in schools and healthcare centers. Citizen participation is key to reversing this crisis. The goal is to transform food systems into sustainable models from the ground up.
Looking Ahead: Urgent Solutions
Obesity will not be solved with rhetorical speeches or generic recommendations. Aggressive policies are needed to reduce the influence of the food industry and promote sustainable food systems. Investment in local production of healthy foods, the promotion of agroecology, and strict control over misleading advertising must be priorities.
World Obesity Day should be a call to action. It is time to challenge policymakers, the food industry, and power structures that perpetuate this crisis. The health of future generations depends on what we do today.
*Machine translation proofread by Janaína da Silva.
Autor
Nutricionista por PUCE y Salubrista Público por USFQ, diploma en Políticas Públicas por FLACSO. Ha coordinado proyectos de salud reconocidos por OPS y trabajado como consultor internacional. Actualmente, es docente en PUCE, enfocado en nutrición comunitaria y salud pública.
