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SOUTH AFRICA: ARTICLE Obesity in South Africa

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Obesity rates are rapidly increasing in the African Region, as in most parts of the world. Overweight and obesity, particularly in urban settings, are major risk factors for type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, heart attacks and a variety of cancers.

There is a common misconception that obesity and other noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) only occur among the wealthy. Poorer populations are experiencing high double-burdens of infectious and chronic diseases.

Causes of Morbid Obesity

Additionally, sub-Saharan women are far more likely to be obese than men affecting women’s health issues, pregnancy, maternal and infant health.

The greatest risk factors for dying of NCDs are complications with infectious diseases such as HIV, tuberculosis, streptococcus, human papilloma-virus, viral hepatitis, rubella and parasitic diseases such as malaria.

Obesity is affected by many factors including food choices, sedentary lifestyles, genetics and cultural beliefs. Counterproductively, many countries in the Region view obesity as a sign of prosperity. Sedentary lifestyles are affected by changing modes of transportation, types of work and increasing rates of urbanisation.

The upward shift in obesity is associated with:

increased consumption of high-fat and high-sugar foods;
increased consumption of highly-refined and processed foods;
decreased consumption of fruits, vegetables, nuts and legumes;
increased sedentary lifestyles.

Strategy for the prevention of Obesity in South Africa

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African Data & Trends in Obesity

Obesity rates are rapidly increasing in the African Region, as in most parts of the world.

Evidence on the causes and effects of obesity and associated NCDs

There is a common misconception that obesity and other noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) only occur among the wealthy.

Key research from across Africa

Strategy for the prevention and control of Obesity in South Africa - 2015 - 2020

Effective policies and interventions

Act today for a healthier future. HSF supports the World Obesity Federation (WOF) in the initiative to stimulate and support practical actions to address obesity.