Nearly half of Brazilians will be obese by 2044, study finds

Sedentary lifestyle, increased consumption of processed foods and socioeconomic inequalities are considered the main drivers of this phenomenon

A recent study, presented at the International Congress on Obesity (ICO) from 2024 onwards St. Paulbrought worrying public health predictions in the Brazil. According to research, the incidence of obesity and overweight among Brazilian adults can reach 75% in just 20 years, affecting almost three-quarters of the country’s adult population.

This index represents a significant increase compared to the current rate, which already affects more than half of Brazilians. The data were collected through a study prepared by Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Fiocruz), led by the researcher Eduardo Nilson and his team, who used advanced models to estimate the future consequences of this growing trend.

The study points to a future in which 48% of adults in Brazil will be classified as obese and 27% as overweight by 2044. These statistics indicate a dramatic increase in the prevalence of chronic diseases linked to excess weight, such as diabetes, cardiovascular diseases and kidney diseases, which have a profound impact on the country’s healthcare system.

What are the main causes of this trend?

Experts attribute the rapid growth of obesity and overweight in Brazil to a combination of factors. Sedentary lifestyle, increased consumption of processed foods and socioeconomic inequalities are considered the main drivers of this phenomenon. Furthermore, the lack of effective public policies to combat these conditions worsens the situation.

Segregation will be even more pronounced in specific demographic groups. Women, blacks, and other non-white people tend to be disproportionately affected by obesity and overweight. Disparities are also evident across different levels of education, with those with lower levels of education being the most affected.

What measures can reverse the increase in the incidence of obesity?

To address this serious public health problem, experts such as Bruno Halpempresident of Brazilian Association for the Study of Obesity and Metabolic Syndrome (Abeso), underline the need to implement solid prevention policies. Incentives for a more active lifestyle and the promotion of healthy eating are essential. Furthermore, a change in popular culture and government policies is needed, moving away from the idea that obesity is simply a consequence of individual choices (through CNN).

“The study findings support the urgent need for public policies to prevent and treat overweight and obesity in… Single Health System (SUS) and demonstrate the likely epidemiological impacts of childhood obesity in Brazil if adequate measures are not taken. In addition to these other approaches under SUS, to effectively address this issue, it is essential to implement fiscal and regulatory policies that promote healthier food environments, especially for children and adolescents,” comment the study authors.

*Report originally published on Perfil Brasil

Source: Terra

Ben

Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.