The World Health Organisation has begun to fear that obesity levels are becoming so common in Europe that they are now seen as the ‘norm’ among teens.
A report has revealed that a third of teens weigh more than they should in over 50 countries. It was found that obesity rates among 11-year-olds were highest in Greece, Portugal, Spain and Ireland.
“Our perception of what is normal has shifted; being overweight is now more common than unusual. We must not let another generation grow up with obesity as the new norm,” said Zsuzsanna Jakab, the World Health Organisation's (WHO) regional director.
She blames lack of physical activity combined with access to foods that are high in sugar, fats and salt. It's a ‘deadly’ combination that should be dealt with accordingly.
It is clear that many aren't taking the problem of obesity as serious as they should. Rather than tackling the issue, a lot teens and parents alike are simply accepting the problem.
Joao Breda, a WHO expert on nutrition, physical activity and obesity, said:
“Physical activity and healthy food choices should be taken very seriously in all environments - schools, hospitals, cities, towns and workplaces. As well as the food industry, the urban planning sector can make a difference.”
