Discover the newly adopted Zagreb Declaration, a powerful political roadmap to tackle childhood obesity in the WHO European Region. Explore the collective commitment of European leaders' spouses and their urgent call for action.
Last 9th and 10th May, spouses of 16 European leaders and heads of state, under the auspices of First Lady of Croatia Dr. Sanja Musić Milanović, made history by launching the first-ever Network of Spouses of European Leaders on the Prevention of Childhood Obesity in the WHO European Region. Their unanimous adoption of the Zagreb Declaration demonstrates a strong political commitment to addressing childhood obesity in their respective countries, while also urging others to follow suit.
The urgency of this declaration stems from alarming childhood obesity data. As per the WHO European Regional Obesity Report 2022, approximately 1 in 3 primary school-aged children in the region currently suffer from obesity or overweight, with projections indicating a further increase.
According to the World Obesity Federation's World Obesity Atlas 2023, the projected numbers between 2020 and 2035 for the WHO European Region are concerning, estimating a 61% increase in boys living with obesity and a 75% increase in girls living with obesity. By 2035, a staggering 17 million boys and 11 million girls aged 5-19 are anticipated to be living with obesity in the Region, leading to an estimated annual cost of US$800 billion for overweight and obesity across all age groups.
To combat this pressing issue, WHO/Europe has identified three key actions: emphasizing prevention, regulating the food and beverage industry, and promoting physical activity. Early prevention efforts, effective policies on sugary drinks, clear labelling, and support for active lifestyles are crucial components in the fight against childhood obesity.
Overweight and obesity pose a major threat to health, contributing to over 1.2 million deaths annually and increasing the risk of noncommunicable diseases, such as cardiovascular diseases, type 2 diabetes, chronic respiratory diseases, and various cancers.
The Zagreb Declaration serves as a crucial first step towards a healthier future for all, requiring united efforts across cultures and sectors.
Access the full Zagreb Declaration and explore the collective commitment to combat childhood obesity here.