Evolution of overweight and obesity in the context of OECD countries and Brazil

Abstract

Objective: Population obesity affects many nations of the world, implying severe economic, social and environmental costs, compromising the condition of sustainable development. This study aims to analyze the evolution of the situation of overweight and obesity in the OECD member countries and Brazil. Methods: This study analyzes data on the prevalence of overweight and obesity made available by the OECD for its member countries, and by the Vigitel System for Brazil. Results: The OECD countries show a great variability in the prevalence of overweight/obesity, with the average prevalence being in the range of 50%. For Brazil, the prevalence of overweight and obesity in the population has increased significantly in recent years, going from about 45% in 2010 to 53.5% in 2020. Conclusion: Most of the countries analyzed are classified in a condition of average prevalence rate of overweight and obesity greater than 50% and a tendency for this prevalence to increase. The study also presents some actions and public policies promoted in other countries with the purpose of promoting the reduction of the prevalence of overweight and obesity, which could be adapted and implemented in the Brazilian context.