Daijiworld Media Network - Geneva

Geneva, Jan 29: For the first time in history, the number of children and adolescents living with obesity has surpassed those who are underweight, the World Health Organization (WHO) said this week. In 2025, about one in 10 school-aged children and adolescents — roughly 188 million — are affected by obesity worldwide.

The WHO released a new set of global guidelines recommending evidence-based policies and interventions to promote healthier school food environments. These guidelines emphasize a “whole school approach,” ensuring that all food and beverages provided in schools, and available throughout the school setting, are healthy and nutritious.

The move comes as public health experts warn of rising childhood obesity rates, which pose long-term risks for diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and other non-communicable conditions. By implementing these school-focused measures, countries can help children develop healthier eating habits from an early age and curb the growing obesity epidemic.

The WHO stressed that schools play a pivotal role in shaping lifelong dietary behaviours and recommended that governments take urgent action to limit access to unhealthy foods and sugary beverages within school premises.

This landmark guideline marks a significant step in global efforts to tackle childhood obesity and promote nutrition-sensitive educational environments worldwide.