There are 8 billion reasons to act on obesity with World Obesity Day 2026 to be commemorated on 4 March this year.
The global health community will unite to raise awareness about the fact that there are numerous root causes for obesity. In particular this year, the Foundation wishes to highlight the fact that obesity is also classified as a medical condition.
“Obesity is one of the key risk factors for heart disease, strokes and the associated risk factors. “
There are 8 billion reasons to act on obesity
Guided by the World Obesity Federation, using the theme: “8 billion reasons to act on obesity”, many relevant health-related stakeholders will drive action on the detection, prevention and treatment of obesity. The theme highlights the fact that each of the 8 billion people on the planet deserves a future with good health.
“Obesity is a broad societal issue accompanied by an obesogenic environment that requires comprehensive action plans to reduce its burden,” says Prof Pamela Naidoo, CEO of HSFSA.
World Obesity Day
World Obesity Day (WOD) provides a crucial opportunity to address the growing health challenge affecting over 1 billion people. This includes 159 million children worldwide, with projections indicating that half the global population will be living with overweight and obesity by 2035.
Naidoo adds, “By changing the environment, providing support, and UTILIZING science-backed treatment options, we can empower individuals to make better health choices to combat obesity”.
The prevalence of obesity among school-aged children has risen five-fold. This is from 4% in 1975 to about 20% in 2022. This increase in childhood obesity is contributing to the early onset of non-communicable diseases, including type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and cardiovascular conditions.
The prevalence of obesity among school-aged children has risen five-fold
South African-specific prevalence figures are also concerning: more than half of adults are living with overweight or obesity, with two-thirds of women affected. As we mark World Obesity Day, one of the key areas gaining attention is the role of GLP-1 medications in treating obesity. GLP-1 (Glucagon-like peptide-1) is a natural hormone that helps control appetite and blood sugar levels.
South African-specific prevalence figures are also concerning
The term “GLP-1” is also commonly used to refer to a class of medications called GLP-1 receptor agonists. This mimic this hormone. These medications treat type 2 diabetes and obesity by reducing appetite and improving blood sugar control. Developed for diabetes management, they grabbed public attention when studies revealed significant weight loss benefits. There’s increasing evidence showing the effectiveness of GLP-1 receptor agonists. This led the WHO to develop its first-ever guidelines on these drugs in 2025. The guidelines provide conditional recommendations for treating adults with obesity.
The WHO has a three-pillar strategy for obesity prevention and management:
-> Healthier Environments: Make healthy food and exercise options more accessible and affordable. This includes regulating the marketing of unhealthy foods, especially to kids, and encouraging food manufacturers to prioritise nutrition, such as the Foundation’s Heart Mark Endorsement Program.
-> Protect Those at Risk: Identify individuals likely to develop obesity early through risk assessment screenings, and provide early support with healthy habits and regular check-ins.
-> Lifelong Care: Offer ongoing guidance and support for sustainable health outcomes. Ensure equal access to everyone.
