Childhood obesity could reach 228 million cases by 2040

The global number of children with obesity could reach 228 million by 2040. This will exceed the number of underweight children for the first time, according to the latest World Obesity Atlas 2026 report by the World Obesity Federation, as reported by Euronews.

According to the analysis, in 2025, approximately 177 million children and adolescents aged 5 to 19 were living with obesity. This number is expected to increase significantly by 2040. The proportion of those affected will rise from 8.7% to 11.9% of all children and youth worldwide.

The report states that over 180 countries are already reporting an increase in cases of overweight and obesity among children. The most rapid increase is observed in low- and middle-income countries, where the majority of the world’s child population resides.

According to the authors, the rate of increase is particularly alarming. They warn that without urgent measures, childhood obesity will become a serious health issue, as well as a socio-economic challenge with long-term consequences for healthcare systems, productivity, and social development.

For the first time, the global number of children with obesity is expected to surpass the number of underweight children before 2027. This marks a significant shift in global malnutrition patterns.

The highest levels of childhood obesity are observed in the Americas, the Eastern Mediterranean, and the Western Pacific regions. At the same time, the trend is no longer limited to wealthy nations; growth is also accelerating in middle-income countries.

In Europe, approximately 14 million children were living with obesity in 2025. Projections show a slight decrease to approximately 13 million by 2040.

According to the report, the risk of childhood overweight is influenced by several factors. These include the mother’s health status and habits, early childhood nutrition, and physical activity levels. Other key risk factors cited include maternal obesity and diabetes, smoking, insufficient breastfeeding during the first months of life, the quality of school meals, and low physical activity.

The consequences of childhood obesity can manifest at an early age. By 2040, at least 120 million school-aged children are expected to show early signs of chronic diseases related to a high body mass index. These include liver disease, elevated triglycerides, hyperglycemia, and high blood pressure.

In addition to health risks, obesity in childhood and adolescence is associated with significant psychosocial consequences, including lower academic performance, stigmatization, discrimination, and bullying.

Experts emphasize that preventive policies alone will not be sufficient. Broader measures are needed within the healthcare system, food policy, the school environment, and urban infrastructure, as well as equal access to healthy food and medical care for all children.