In a significant step to address the escalating obesity crisis, China’s National Health Commission (NHC) has released its first-ever guidelines for the diagnosis and treatment of obesity. Made public on October 17, these guidelines come at a crucial time when more than half of China’s adult population is classified as overweight or obese, with projections indicating that this figure could rise to 65.3% by 2030.
“Obesity has emerged as a critical public health concern in China, now ranking as the sixth leading risk factor for death and disability,” the guidelines state. The rising prevalence of obesity reflects broader societal changes, including sedentary lifestyles fueled by technological advancements and economic pressures that often lead to unhealthy eating habits.
As urbanization continues, job-related stress and long working hours are becoming prevalent risk factors in cities. Concurrently, rural areas are witnessing a decline in physically demanding agricultural work, coupled with limited access to healthcare resources. This dual challenge exacerbates the nation’s weight-related issues, necessitating comprehensive action.
The new guidelines offer a structured approach to obesity management, detailing strategies for clinical nutrition, surgical treatments, behavioral and psychological interventions, and exercise programs. Zhang Zhongtao, director of the drafting committee and deputy head of Beijing Friendship Hospital, emphasized the guidelines’ importance in standardizing care for obesity, which will aid healthcare providers in implementing effective treatment plans.
In July, the NHC, alongside 15 other government departments, initiated a three-year public awareness campaign aimed at tackling obesity. This initiative focuses on eight key messages: lifelong commitment, active monitoring, balanced diets, increased physical activity, good sleep, reasonable goals, and family involvement. Health education materials have also been distributed to primary and secondary schools, advocating for regular health screenings, daily exercise, and nutritional guidance, such as reducing salt, oil, and sugar intake.
The rise in obesity in China is described as an “unintended consequence of improving living standards.” For decades, the nation faced challenges of under-nourishment, making the current situation particularly poignant. As living standards have risen, so too have the lifestyle factors contributing to obesity, emphasizing the need for a holistic approach to public health.
The NHC’s guidelines signify a pivotal moment in China’s health policy, aiming to reshape the narrative around obesity and promote healthier lifestyles across the nation. By providing clear protocols and fostering public awareness, the NHC hopes to reverse the trend and empower citizens to take charge of their health.
As the guidelines are implemented, the emphasis will be on collaboration among healthcare professionals, educators, and families, fostering a community-centric approach to fighting obesity. The time for action is now, and with these guidelines, China is poised to make significant strides in improving the health of its population.
Read more:
Can Weight-Loss Injections Solve the Obesity Crisis?
Fatty Liver Disease: Foods to Avoid & Eat
Novo Nordisk’s Rybelsus: A Breakthrough In Diabetes Management Reduces Heart Risks By 14%
