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World Obesity Day is observed on 4th March each year. This day tries to create awareness around obesity and how it is harmful to your overall health and different body organs. It also educates people around the world about different ways to tackle obesity. According to WHO, obesity rates have nearly tripled since 1975 and have increased almost five times in children and adolescents, affecting people of all ages from all social groups in both developed and developing countries.
The accumulation of excess and abnormal fat in the body which may harm your health in various ways is defined as being overweight or obese. The World Health Organization (W.H.O.) defines an individual as being overweight when their Body Mass Index (B.M.I.) is over 25 and obese when it is over 30. The prevalence of obesity has exponentially increased in the last 4 decades.
Obesity is also a major risk factor for chronic conditions like type-2 diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, stroke and certain cancers. World Obesity Day 2021 focuses on the global campaign 'Every Body Needs Everybody.' This campaign invites people around the world to collectively address this global crisis.
The objectives for World Obesity day are-
Increase awareness- It is crucial to create awareness about obesity as a disease. It is also important to understand the root causes of obesity and the steps needed to address these.
Encourage advocacy- It strives to change how obesity is addressed across society. Also, encourages people to stand up for a change.
Improve policies- Building a system that encourages a bright future. Creation of policies that prioritize obesity as a serious health issue and work on fighting against it.
Share experiences- Coming together can help fight obesity and challenges related to it effectively. Sharing experiences can inspire others to achieve this common goal.