[Understanding obesity in Africa: the effect of [economic] development and [mental] concepts]

Obesity is becoming more and more common in Africa. It is the direct consequence of the socio-economic development that the continent is going through and the changes in lifestyle that it entails: greater consumption of calorically dense foods accompanied by a more sedentary lifestyle. Furthermore, there are various representations and beliefs that promote voluntary weight gain. Studies have shown that obesity is not only a criterion of beauty but also often perceived as a sign of wealth and even good health. To remedy this problem, the authorities in collaboration with health care professionals must develop populational strategies that take into account the different representations and beliefs in order for them to be effective.