Kenya is facing a growing childhood obesity crisis, with over 2.1 million children aged five to 19 being overweight or obese in 2025, according to a new report from the World Obesity Federation (WOF). The country’s health system is under threat due to the rising number of long-term conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and liver problems among young people.
The report warns that without urgent action, these trends could put a heavy strain on Kenya’s healthcare system. Experts point to several key factors driving these trends, including low physical activity levels, limited access to healthier food options, and early nutrition gaps.
The WOF predicts that over 507 million children worldwide will be overweight or obese by 2040, with more than 57 million showing early signs of cardiovascular disease and over 43 million presenting with high blood pressure. The organization is calling for immediate action to address childhood obesity, including improving school meals, encouraging regular exercise, supporting breastfeeding, and limiting the marketing of unhealthy foods to children.
The CEO of WOF, Johanna Ralston, stressed that governments need to take urgent steps to prevent and manage childhood obesity, ensuring that children receive the care they need.
Source: https://eastleighvoice.co.ke/health/305755/over-21-million-kenyan-children-overweight-or-obese-new-report-warns