[Overweight--an actual problem in modern world]

It is estimated that by 2020 two-thirds of the global burden of disease will be attributable to chronic noncommunicable diseases, most of them strongly associated with diet. The nutrition transition towards refined foods, foods of animal origin, and increased fats plays a major role in the current global epidemics of obesity, diabetes and cardiovascular diseases, among other noncommunicable conditions. The epidemics cannot be ended simply by encouraging people to reduce their risk factors and adopt healthier lifestyles. The WHO worked out some possible measures for the development of a coordinated global strategy on diet, physical activity and health. A concerted multi-sectoral approach, involving the use of policy, health education and trade mechanisms, is necessary to address these matters.