[Increasing frequency of obesity in Chile]

An explosive increase in overweight and obesity occurred in Chile since the 90's, without an integrative national policy.

To describe the current obesity situation in Chile and its consequences.

Analysis of the available anthropometric data obtained by an annual census of anthropometry for students (Nutritional Map) collected by the Ministry of Education, and three National Health Surveys (2003, 2009-2010 y 2016-2017) performed by the Ministry of Health in adults.

According to the Nutritional Map the prevalence of obesity in 1987 was 7.5% among children of six years of age and increased to 24% in 2018 (8% with severe obesity). At 14 years of age, the frequency of obesity increased from 8 to 15% from 2011 to 2018. In children older than 15 years, overweight and obesity increased from 61 to 74% from 2003 to 2016. In the same period, total obesity increased from 23 to 34% and the frequency of diabetes duplicated from 6 to 12%. The frequency of hypertension did not change, but its prevalence is 45 and 73% after 45 and 65 years of age, respectively.

The frequency of obesity will continue to increase, producing severe health risks for the population. Public policies addressing both structural and individual aspects are recommended.