UNICEF has revealed a pivotal shift in global child malnutrition trends: obesity has surpassed underweight for the first time among school-aged children and adolescents. Based on 2000-2022 data, approximately 188 million children aged 5–19, or one in 10, are now classified as obese—an increase from just 3% in 2000 to 9.4% in 2022. In contrast, underweight prevalence has declined from nearly 13% to 9.2%.
UNICEF Executive Director Catherine Russell emphasized the changing face of malnutrition:
“When we talk about malnutrition, we are no longer just talking about underweight children.”
The prevalence of obesity now exceeds that of underweight in every region except sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia. In Pacific Island nations, the rates are particularly striking—nearly 40% of children aged 5–19 are obese. The UAE and the United States each report obesity rates around 21%, prompting discussions in some U.S. quarters about the use of weight-loss drugs for teens.
Experts point to the proliferation and marketing of ultra-processed foods (UPFs) as the primary driver behind this trend.
“Obesity is not a failure of parents or children. It’s the result of toxic food environments,” said Professor Chris Van Tulleken of University College London.
Supporting this, a global survey of 64,000 young people across 170 countries revealed that 75% saw ads for sugary drinks, snacks, or fast food in the past week—even in conflict-affected regions.
In response, UNICEF is calling on governments worldwide to implement urgent measures: restrict junk food marketing, ban unhealthy products in schools, and support policies that foster healthier food environments.
