The World Health Organization (WHO) has called on countries in the South-East Asia Region to intensify efforts to combat the increasing prevalence of overweight, obesity, and noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) by adopting stronger policies that encourage healthy diets and physical activity. The appeal was made during a regional meeting focused on promoting healthier food environments and boosting physical activity through comprehensive policy measures.

Saima Wazed, the Regional Director for WHO South-East Asia, highlighted the growing health crisis, stating that the burden of overweight and obesity, along with related metabolic disorders, is rapidly rising across the region. Both children and adults are affected, fueling a surge in noncommunicable diseases such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and cancer. Wazed emphasized that NCDs now account for nearly two-thirds of all deaths in the region, underscoring the urgent need for intervention.

The statistics are alarming, with approximately 5 million children under the age of five classified as overweight, and an additional 37.3 million children between the ages of 5 to 19 affected. This increase in childhood obesity, coupled with rapid urbanization and economic growth, has led to unhealthy dietary patterns and a decline in physical activity. As a result, around 74% of adolescents and half of all adults are not sufficiently active, which is contributing to the worsening health crisis.

The growing epidemic of NCDs and obesity poses a significant threat to achieving the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, which aims to reduce premature deaths from NCDs by one-third by 2030 and promote overall mental health and well-being. Wazed pointed out that while knowledge about healthy diets and the importance of physical activity is crucial, creating environments that support and encourage healthier choices is equally essential to meet these global health targets.

The WHO emphasized the need for robust regulatory frameworks and policies that promote healthier food environments at all levels, including homes, schools, retail spaces, and digital platforms. Creating safe recreational areas and walkways in urban settings, along with implementing fiscal policies that incentivize healthy eating, are critical steps toward addressing the rising obesity epidemic.

Although several countries in the region have made significant strides by introducing regulations on food labeling, banning trans fats, and implementing taxes on sugar-sweetened beverages, more extensive action is needed. WHO's evidence-based strategies encourage governments to work across sectors such as education, commerce, transport, and urban planning to ensure comprehensive solutions to the growing public health challenges posed by unhealthy diets and sedentary lifestyles.

Wazed noted that despite the progress made, challenges remain, including weak coordination across sectors, industry lobbying, and capacity gaps among stakeholders. These challenges must be addressed to effectively combat the NCD crisis. The regional meeting provided a platform for experts, officials, and civil society representatives to discuss ways to improve national coordination efforts and build governmental capacity to support healthier communities.

The WHO's Global Action Plan for Physical Activity (GAPPA) offers a clear roadmap for making societies more active. However, it also recognizes the cultural constraints that may limit participation, particularly for women and girls. By addressing these barriers and promoting inclusivity, countries can work toward creating healthier populations.

Wazed concluded by urging countries to collaborate across sectors to overcome the obstacles that hinder progress. With coordinated action and the involvement of civil society, the region can drive meaningful changes toward healthier lifestyles and, ultimately, reduce the growing burden of obesity and noncommunicable diseases in South-East Asia.