Childhood obesity now affects more young people worldwide than underweight does, marking a historic shift in global malnutrition patterns, UNICEF announced. One in 10 school-age children and adolescents—188 million kids—currently live with obesity, according to a UNICEF press release. Meanwhile, 9.2% are underweight, making this the first time obesity rates have topped underweight among children aged 5-19.
The numbers tell a stark story of changing diets over the past 25 years. While underweight dropped from nearly 13% in 2000, obesity more than tripled from 3% to 9.4% during the same period. UNICEF’s new report, “Feeding Profit: How Food Environments are Failing Children,” draws on data from over 190 countries and shows obesity now exceeds underweight in every region except sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia.
Pacific Island nations face the steepest rates, with 38% of 5-to-19-year-olds in Niue living with obesity—double the rate from 2000. Cook Islands and Nauru follow close behind at 37% and 33% respectively, driven largely by imported, processed foods replacing traditional diets. Even wealthy countries struggle: Chile reports 27% of children with obesity, while the United States and United Arab Emirates each hit 21%.
Young people can’t escape the marketing blitz pushing unhealthy foods. A UNICEF survey of 64,000 teens and young adults found that 75% saw ads for sugary drinks, snacks, or fast food in just one week.
“Ultra-processed food is increasingly replacing fruits, vegetables and protein at a time when nutrition plays a critical role in children’s growth, cognitive development and mental health,” said UNICEF Executive Director Catherine Russell.
Without major policy changes, the crisis will cost countries dearly. Peru alone faces potential losses exceeding $210 billion from obesity-related health problems, while global costs could hit $4 trillion yearly by 2035. UNICEF wants governments to ban junk food sales in schools, restrict food marketing to children, and strengthen social programs that help families afford nutritious meals.
