How common is obesity?

Obesity is a global epidemic, with the prevalence of obesity increasing in most countries around the world. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), obesity has nearly tripled since 1975. In 2016, more than 1.9 billion adults, aged 18 years and older, were overweight. Of these over 650 million were obese.

Regional trends:

- Americas: The Americas have the highest levels of obesity, with over 60% of adults being overweight or obese.

- Europe: Europe has the second-highest levels of obesity, with over 50% of adults being overweight or obese.

- Western Pacific: The Western Pacific region has the third-highest levels of obesity, with over 40% of adults being overweight or obese.

- South-East Asia: South-East Asia has the lowest levels of obesity, with over 30% of adults being overweight or obese.

Obesity is a major risk factor for a number of chronic diseases, including heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, and some types of cancer. It is also a major cause of premature death.