The rapid increase in the prevalence of obesity in recent years
has occurred too quickly to be explained by genetic
changes. Most experts believe it is due to living in an
increasingly 'obesogenic' environment. This is an
environment that promotes over-consumption of food and drink,
and limits opportunities for physical activity.
A healthy body size is increasingly recognised as important for
good health and wellbeing. Obesity in adults is associated
with a long list of adult health conditions, including
cardiovascular disease, some cancers, type 2 diabetes, kidney
disease, and psychological and social problems. Overweight
and obese children are more likely to be obese into adulthood, and
childhood obesity may increase early mortality in adult
life.
Since the late 1980s the prevalence of adult obesity has
increased in New Zealand, rising from 10% in 1989 to 28% in
2012. One in five (21%) children are now overweight, and one
in ten are obese. Since 2006 the prevalence of obesity in
children and young people, as well as adults has increased, though
the rate of increase has slowed slightly.
Being overweight or obese disproportionately affects Māori
and Pacific children and young people. In 2006/07, 25% of
Māori children and young people were overweight and 13% were obese
compared with 20% and 8% of children and young people
overall. In Pacific children and young people 31% were
overweight and 26% obese.
Read the full issue summary for obesity
[PDF].