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GEORGETOWN, Guyana, CMC – Health Minister, Dr. Frank Anthony, Tuesday said obesity has emerged as a significant concern in Guyana, with rates steadily increasing among both adults and children.
In a message marking World Obesity Day, the Health Minister said that the World Obesity Federation has noted that by 2025, the obesity prevalence is projected to reach 20.2 per cent for men and 35.5 per cent for women, while 15.7 per cent of children, ages five to 19 years, will be affected.
World Obesity Day 2025, is being observed under the theme, ‘Changing Systems, Healthier Lives’.
Dr. Anthony said that with obesity and related Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) posing a major challenge, the Guyana government remains committed to tackling this crisis through policy interventions, public education, and improved healthcare services.
He said NCDs including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and hypertension remain the leading causes of death in Guyana.
In 2016, NCDs accounted for 68 per cent of all deaths, with cardiovascular disease being responsible for 34 per cent. The Health Minister said the risk of premature death, ages 30-70, from NCDs ,stands at 31 per cent, signalling an urgent need for intervention.
“The dietary landscape in Guyana has undergone significant shifts, contributing to the obesity crisis. The rise of fast food restaurants and increasing availability of processed high-calorie foods have led to higher rates of unhealthy eating.
“Many of these foods are loaded with unhealthy fats, sugars, and sodium major contributors to weight gain and obesity-related diseases. Sedentary lifestyles and low levels of physical activity have further worsened the situation.”
The Health Minister said recognising the urgent need for action, the government, through the Ministry of Health’s Disease Control Programme, has implemented several initiatives to combat obesity and NCDs.
He said these include nationwide educational programmes and campaigns to promote healthy eating habits and active lifestyles, empowering citizens to make informed health choices as well as educating the public on BMI calculation to help individuals monitor their weight and take proactive steps towards working alongside schools, workplaces, and civil society organisations to foster a culture of wellness and healthy living.
He said specialised programmes and workshops for kitchen and administrative staff in residential facilities ensure children receive nutritious, balanced meals and that the authorities have enhanced healthcare access and resources for individuals struggling with obesity and NCDs, ensuring better prevention, management, and treatment options.
Dr. Anthony said In observance of World Obesity Day, the ministry is encouraging all Guyanese to adopt healthier eating habits and increase fruit and vegetable intake aiming for five servings daily to get essential nutrients and fibre.
They should also opt for brown rice, whole wheat bread, and oats for better digestion and prolonged satiety and limit limit sugary beverages.
Guyanese are also being encouraged to use smaller plates and bowls to manage calorie intake effectively and reduce fast food consumption, opting also for healthy snacks.
