Obesity Among Young Adults in Developing Countries: A Systematic Overview.
Amudha Poobalan1, Lorna Aucott2
1Public Health Nutrition Group, University of Aberdeen, Polwarth Building, Foresterhill, Aberdeen, AB25 2ZD, UK. a.poobalan@abdn.ac.uk.
Current Obesity Reports
|February 18, 2016
Summary
Young adults in developing countries face a growing overweight and obesity crisis, with higher weight gain rates than in developed nations. Targeted, culturally relevant interventions are urgently needed to address this public health challenge.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Epidemiology
- Global Health
Background:
- Overweight and obesity are significant health concerns among young adults in developing nations.
- Prevalence rates for obesity range from 2.3% to 12%, with overweight affecting 28.8%, disproportionately impacting females.
- Weight gain in this demographic is accelerating, exceeding rates seen in developed countries.
Purpose of the Study:
- To discuss the current overweight and obesity situation in young adults within developing countries.
- To highlight the contributing factors and the need for effective interventions.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing data on overweight and obesity prevalence in young adults in developing countries.
- Analysis of associated factors including maternal influences, early socioeconomic status, and environmental/behavioral changes.
Main Results:
- Obesity prevalence is 2.3-12% and overweight is 28.8%, with females more affected.
- Young adults are gaining weight at 1 kg/year, a faster rate than in developed countries.
- Normal weight obesity requires identification using cost-effective measures like skin folds or waist circumference.
Conclusions:
- Urgent need for obesity prevention and management strategies tailored for young adults in developing countries.
- Interventions must be innovative, country-specific, culturally acceptable, and delivered at an optimal age due to young people's low prioritization of future health.
