Youth obesity is on the rise worldwide, with millions of children and teenagers affected by weight-related health concerns. In recent decades, the number of young people classified as overweight or obese has increased dramatically, with projections suggesting even higher rates in the future. From shifting dietary habits to reduced physical activity, various factors contribute to this growing trend. While the issue presents challenges, it also highlights opportunities for positive change through better nutrition, education, and lifestyle choices. In this post, we’ll explore key statistics on global youth obesity and what they mean for the future of health and wellbeing.
As of 2025, approximately 493 million children and adolescents are classified as overweight or obese.
If current trends persist, by 2050, over 746 million youths are expected to be affected by overweight or obesity, accounting for nearly one-third of the global child and adolescent population.
Nations such as the United States, Canada, and Australia have seen their childhood obesity rates double or triple since the 1980s.
Australia: Since the onset of the 21st century, Australia has observed an increase in childhood obesity, particularly in lower socioeconomic areas, where poor nutritional education has been identified as a contributing factor.
Childhood obesity increases the likelihood of developing health issues such as type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and certain cancers later in life.
In 2020, the World Health Organization estimated that 39 million children under the age of five were overweight or obese worldwide.
In 2016, approximately 340 million children and adolescents aged between 5 and 19 were overweight or obese globally.
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