14 May 2026 Punjab Khabarnama Bureau : A new international study has warned that Obesity is increasing at a significantly faster pace in low and middle income countries, raising major public health concerns about future disease burden, healthcare costs, and rising lifestyle-related illnesses.
Researchers said the trend reflects rapid changes in diet, urban lifestyles, physical activity patterns, and economic transitions occurring across developing regions worldwide. Experts warn that the growing obesity crisis could place enormous pressure on healthcare systems already struggling with infectious diseases and limited medical resources.
According to the study, countries in Asia, Africa, Latin America, and parts of the Middle East are witnessing accelerating rates of obesity among both adults and children. Public health researchers say the shift marks a major transformation from earlier decades when obesity was primarily associated with wealthier nations.
The study reportedly linked the increase to several factors including:
- Urbanisation
- Processed food consumption
- Sedentary lifestyles
- Reduced physical activity
- Changing work patterns
- Increased sugar intake
Experts noted that economic growth and expanding access to packaged foods have altered eating habits in many developing countries.
Researchers warned that rising obesity levels are closely connected to growing cases of:
- Type 2 Diabetes
- Heart disease
- Hypertension
- Stroke
- Certain cancers
- Fatty liver disease
Medical professionals say obesity is now becoming one of the world’s most serious non-communicable disease challenges.
The study also highlighted concerns regarding childhood obesity, with researchers observing that unhealthy dietary habits and reduced outdoor physical activity are affecting younger populations at alarming rates.
Health experts believe the long-term consequences could include:
- Early-onset diabetes
- Cardiovascular complications
- Mental health challenges
- Reduced life expectancy
- Increased healthcare expenditure
Researchers stressed that low and middle income countries often face a “double burden” where undernutrition and obesity coexist within the same populations. In some communities, children may suffer from nutrient deficiencies while adults experience obesity-related disorders.
Public health specialists say aggressive marketing of processed foods, sugary beverages, and fast-food products has significantly influenced dietary behavior globally. Urban lifestyles and technology-driven work patterns have also reduced physical movement and exercise levels.
The study reportedly emphasized that obesity is not simply an issue of personal responsibility but is increasingly shaped by broader economic, social, and environmental conditions.
Experts called for stronger government action involving:
- Public nutrition policies
- Food labeling regulations
- School health programs
- Urban fitness infrastructure
- Awareness campaigns
- Taxation on unhealthy products
Healthcare professionals also stressed the importance of early prevention strategies rather than relying only on treatment after obesity-related diseases develop.
The findings come at a time when global healthcare systems are already facing growing pressure from aging populations and rising chronic disease cases. Analysts warn that unchecked obesity trends could create long-term economic and healthcare challenges worldwide.
Several developing nations have already begun introducing public health initiatives promoting:
- Balanced diets
- Physical activity
- Reduced sugar consumption
- Healthy school meals
- Community fitness programs
However, experts say broader structural reforms are still needed to slow the rapid rise in obesity rates.
Researchers concluded that without immediate intervention, obesity may become one of the defining global health crises of the coming decades, particularly in countries undergoing rapid economic and urban transformation.
The study has once again highlighted the urgent need for coordinated international efforts to address changing lifestyles, food systems, and public health policies contributing to the accelerating obesity epidemic.