Kazakhstan's obesity epidemic quadruples among teens in 30 years

Obesity rates in Kazakhstan have surged over the past three decades, posing serious health risks. Nearly one in three adults now lives with obesity, while excess weight affects over half the adult population. Among teenagers, obesity has quadrupled since 1990, with younger children also increasingly affected.

The rise in obesity has been sharp. In 1990, far fewer adults and adolescents struggled with the condition. Today, around 30% of women and 34% of men are obese, while roughly 20% of teenagers and 5% of younger children face the same issue. Fast food and inactive lifestyles are major factors, particularly for children.

Excess weight brings severe health consequences. It raises the risk of insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes, thyroid problems, and heart disease. Diabetes cases in Kazakhstan have nearly tripled in 20 years. Obesity also triggers chronic inflammation, weakening the immune system and increasing cancer risk.

Experts stress the need for lifestyle changes. They advise eating more vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and protein while cutting back on sugar, sugary drinks, and processed foods. Regular physical activity is equally important. For men, healthy body fat ranges from 8% to 15%, while women should aim for 20% to 22%.

Kazakhstan's obesity crisis demands action. Without systemic changes, the health risks will keep growing. Preventing further increases requires better diets, more movement, and long-term habits to reduce excess weight.