Obesity has long ceased to be a minor problem. Currently, it represents a global challenge for health systems. According to the World Health Organization, approximately 900 million adults worldwide have a body mass index (BMI) greater than 30.
The highest rates are recorded in the Pacific region, the United States, and the Persian Gulf countries, where the proportion of obese people varies between 40% and 75%. In Europe, obesity rates vary widely, from 10% to 13% in France, Switzerland, and Denmark, to more than 30% in Romania and Hungary.
In Portugal, the figure is 22%, while in Italy it reaches 17% and in Spain 16%.
In Latin America, rates are generally higher, ranging from 23% in Venezuela to 39% in Chile. In Africa and East Asia, they are significantly lower, although with an increasing trend.