Childhood obesity has now overtaken underweight as the most common form of malnutrition among school-aged children and adolescents, according to a new UNICEF report.
The study, Feeding Profit: How Food Environments Are Failing Children, reveals that 1 in 10 children — about 188 million worldwide — are living with obesity. This marks the first time obesity has become more widespread than underweight in this age group.
Rising Obesity Rates Since 2000
Data from the report shows that obesity among children aged 5 to 19 has tripled, increasing from 3% in 2000 to 9.4% in 2024. Meanwhile, the global rate of underweight in the same age group has declined from nearly 13% to 9.2%.
This shift signals a dramatic change in global child nutrition patterns, with obesity emerging as the more pressing challenge.
UNICEF Raises Concern Over Nutrition Crisis
“When we talk about malnutrition, we are no longer just talking about underweight children,” said UNICEF Executive Director Catherine Russell.
She explained that obesity is becoming a growing health crisis, with long-term risks of diabetes, heart disease, and other life-threatening conditions.
Russell also warned that ultra-processed foods are replacing healthier options such as fruits, vegetables, and proteins. This trend undermines children’s growth, cognitive development, and mental well-being.
Regional Trends: Sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia Still Face Underweight Challenges
While obesity has surpassed underweight in most parts of the world, the report highlights that sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia remain exceptions, where undernutrition is still more prevalent.
However, many countries are now experiencing what experts call a “double burden of malnutrition” — where children face both stunting and obesity in the same communities.
The Role of Ultra-Processed Foods in Childhood Obesity
The report points to the growing availability and aggressive marketing of ultra-processed foods as a key driver of rising obesity rates. These foods, often high in sugar, salt, and unhealthy fats, dominate supermarkets, school shops, and increasingly target young audiences through digital platforms.
This shift in food environments has made it harder for parents to provide their children with affordable, nutritious meals.
UNICEF’s Call to Action
UNICEF is urging governments to take strong policy action to improve children’s access to healthy and affordable food.
“Nutritious and affordable food must be available to every child to support their growth and development,” Russell stressed. “We urgently need policies that empower parents and caregivers to choose healthier foods for their children.”
