#22: Childhood Obesity in Asia
In the realm of childhood obesity, Asia presents a complex landscape, where chopsticks dance with fast food temptations. While the overall percentage of childhood obesity varies across countries, there are trends worth noting. Rapid urbanization, shifting dietary patterns, and sedentary lifestyles contribute to the expanding waistlines of Asia’s youth. Countries like China and India grapple with substantial numbers, with approximately 20% and 15% of children, respectively, facing this heavyweight issue.
In South Korea and Japan, where sumo wrestlers dominate the stereotype, the battle against childhood obesity is still a pressing concern, with rates hovering around 10%. Meanwhile, the smaller island nations of Singapore and Taiwan strive to keep their youthful populations trim, boasting rates below 10%.