Turkey ranks first in Europe and third globally in childhood obesity
Turkey has risen to first place in Europe and third place in the world in childhood obesity. Experts have issued warnings against metabolic and psychological risks.
According to childhood obesity data, Turkey ranks third globally and first in Europe. Urbanization, fast-food culture, and a sedentary lifestyle threaten the health of growing children.
Global and Continental Ranking
Turkey has ranked 3rd globally and 1st in Europe in childhood obesity. Urbanization, changing dietary habits, and a sedentary lifestyle threaten the metabolic and psychological health of growing children.
World Health Organization data and expert warnings clearly show that the current picture has turned into a chronic health crisis.
Dietary Habits and Misguided Perceptions
Dietitian Gürkan Hınız touched upon the negative effects of the deeply rooted societal perception that a chubby child is a healthy child and the spread of fast-food culture.
The gradual decline of the traditional vegetable-heavy Turkish cuisine and the increase in fast-food consumption put children's health at risk.
Sedentary Lifestyle and Screen Time
The increase in screen time causes children to remain sedentary for long periods and damages their internal organs.
A sedentary lifestyle ranks among the primary factors triggering the obesity crisis.
Psychological and Physical Risks
Children experiencing severe weight issues may face serious illnesses such as type 2 diabetes and hypertension in later years.
Children facing weight problems being exposed to peer bullying and this situation creating a vicious cycle negatively impacts psychological health.
Insulin Resistance Danger
Internal medicine specialist Dr. Emrah Turunç stated that attention must be paid to the symptoms of insulin resistance, which is observed in one out of every four people in Turkey.
Experts emphasize that the early detection of metabolic disorders is of vital importance.