Today (March 4) is World Obesity Day. In Hong Kong, adults with a body mass index (BMI) between 23 and 25 are considered overweight, while those with a BMI of 25 or above are classified as obese. According to the Department of Health's population health survey report, the prevalence of overweight and obesity among individuals aged 15 to 84 in Hong Kong increased from 50% in 2014/15 to 54.6% in 2020 to 2022.
Regarding students, among those who underwent annual health checks at the Department of Health, the prevalence of overweight (including obesity) among primary school students dropped from 19.5% in the 2022/23 school year to 16.4% in the 2023/24 school year, marking a new low since the 2014/15 school year. However, the prevalence of overweight (including obesity) among secondary school students remains at a high level of around 20%.
Controller of the Centre for Health Protection of the Department of Health, Edwin Tsui Lok-kin stated that numerous global studies show that as obesity levels increase, mortality rates also rise. Obesity is a major risk factor for various chronic diseases, including hypertension, heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, cancer, musculoskeletal disorders, and sleep apnea.
To achieve and maintain a healthy weight, citizens should practice healthy living from a young age, including maintaining a balanced diet, engaging in physical activities, and reducing sedentary time, Tsui added.
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