MANILA, Philippines — Around 27 million Filipinos are considered overweight or obese, according to a leading global health care company as World Obesity Day was observed last Saturday.
“Obesity is particularly prevalent in the Philippines, where 36.6 percent of individuals aged 20 years or older meet the World Health Organization (WHO) body mass index or BMI cutoff points for being overweight or obese,” Novo Nordisk said in a statement, citing a recent survey conducted by the Food and Nutrition Research Institute.
Overweight and obesity are defined as abnormal or excessive fat accumulation that presents a risk to health, according to the WHO.
A BMI of over 25 is considered overweight while over 30 is obese.
“In the Philippines, the burden of obesity continues to rise, with the prevalence among adults doubling in the past decade,” Novo Nordisk said.
“Nearly four out of 10 adults are overweight or obese, putting them at a higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease and other chronic diseases,” it added.
The pharmaceutical company stressed that despite being labeled a simple lifestyle choice, obesity is a complex disease that requires a comprehensive approach to prevention and management.
Novo Nordisk also noted that over one billion people worldwide are affected by the global obesity epidemic – that include 650 million adults, 340 million adolescents and 39 million children.
“The World Health Organization predicts that this number will continue to rise, with 167 million individuals projected to experience declining health due to overweight or obesity by 2025,” the statement said.
Concerned medical groups and health experts warned that obesity remains to be another persistent public health challenge that significantly increases the risk of developing severe complications from the COVID-19 virus.
They are one in pointing out that obesity affects not only a person’s physical health, but also his mental well-being and social and economic status.
“Obesity is not just about being overweight; it is a chronic disease that affects the whole body. The prevalence and burden of obesity in the Philippines are alarming, and we need to understand the physiological aspect of obesity to provide appropriate management and care to those affected,” Dr. Joy Arabelle Fontanilla, an endocrinologist, said.
“The stigma and discrimination associated with obesity can lead to psychological distress, such as depression, anxiety and low self-esteem. Addressing the mental health effects of obesity is crucial in providing comprehensive care and support for individuals affected by this chronic disease,” Dr. Edgardo Tolentino Jr., a psychiatrist, said.
Meanwhile, for Philippine Association of the Study of Overweight and Obesity president and University of the Philippines College of Medicine professor Dr. Nemencio Nicodemus Jr., medical societies play a crucial role in addressing the complex issue of obesity in the Philippines.
“By continuously advocating for evidence-based approaches to prevent and manage obesity, medical societies can help change the narrative around this chronic disease. With the support of the medical community, we can improve the health and well-being of Filipinos affected by obesity and other related diseases,” Nicodemus said.
At the same time, Novo Nordisk said it recognizes the importance of addressing the psychological aspects of obesity and encourages patients, doctors and stakeholders to join the conversation and break the stigma surrounding this chronic disease.
“As a country that values health and wellness, Denmark recognizes the importance of addressing the global obesity epidemic. We share in amplifying the conversation on obesity and promoting awareness and education to combat this chronic disease,” Danish Ambassador Franz-Michael Skjold Mellbin said.
“We support the efforts of Novo Nordisk and other organizations in providing innovative treatments and comprehensive care to those affected by obesity. Together, we can make significant progress in defeating this public health challenge,” Mellbin added.
The drug manufacturing company likewise emphasized that by creating a more supportive and inclusive environment, “it is hoped that individuals affected by obesity will be more likely to seek the help and support they need to manage this chronic disease effectively.”