The World Health Organization (WHO) has urged countries in the South-East Asia Region to strengthen policies promoting healthy diets and physical activity in response to the rising levels of obesity, overweight, and noncommunicable diseases (NCDs), which are a leading cause of death in the region.
“The burden of overweight, obesity, and related metabolic disorders has been steadily increasing, affecting both children and adults. This rise has triggered a surge in NCDs such as cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and cancer, which now account for nearly two-thirds of deaths in the region,” said Saima Wazed, WHO South-East Asia Regional Director, during a regional meeting focused on promoting healthy diets, food environments, and physical activity.
An estimated 5 million children under five and 37.3 million children aged 5 to 19 are overweight in the region. Rapid urbanization and economic growth have contributed to unhealthy diets and more sedentary lifestyles. Nearly 74% of adolescents and 50% of adults are not physically active enough.
These trends pose a significant challenge to achieving the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, which aims to reduce premature mortality from NCDs by one-third. “Healthy diets and regular physical activity are essential to meeting this target,” said Wazed, emphasizing the need for policies that create supportive environments for healthier lifestyle choices.
WHO recommends regulatory frameworks to promote healthier food environments, particularly in schools, workplaces, and urban settings. The organization also highlights the importance of fiscal policies, such as taxing sugar-sweetened beverages and banning trans fats, as well as providing safe spaces for physical activity.
Several countries in the region have made progress by implementing food labeling regulations and taxing unhealthy products, but more action is needed. The regional meeting brought together experts, officials, and civil society representatives to discuss the need for multisectoral collaboration across sectors like education, commerce, transport, and urban planning to address these health challenges.
Wazed stressed the importance of overcoming obstacles such as lack of coordination, industry lobbying, and capacity gaps. “By working together across sectors, we can strengthen national efforts, build capacity, and create healthier communities,” she concluded.
