Over the past twenty years, obesity among young Italians has shown a worrying increase, with 1.6 million new cases among young adults aged between 18 and 34. Data provided by Istat in 2023 reveal that the total number of people affected by obesity has increased by 38% compared to 2003. These numbers emerged during the sixth Italian Obesity Barometer Summit, an event that brought together institutions, experts and associations to discuss strategies for the prevention and treatment of obesity.
The summit shed light on significant statistics that highlight the increase in obesity in different age groups. In the 18-34 age group, the percentage of obese people increased from 2.6% to 6.6%, while in young men and women the number doubled and tripled respectively. In the 35-44 age group, there was also an increase from 6.4% to 9.8%, with increasing rates among those over 74.
Experts point out that obesity is linked to more than 200 complications, including cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes. This condition not only reduces life expectancy but also increases the mortality rate. The association between body mass index (BMI) and hypertension is particularly alarming; in fact, hypertension affects 45% of individuals with a normal BMI and reaches up to 87% among those who suffer from obesity, as highlighted by the president of the Ibdo Foundation, Paolo Sbraccia.
The challenge of obesity requires a multifactorial approach. The Minister of Health, Orazio Schillaci, stressed the importance of prevention and the fight against the stigma associated with this disease.
“Obesity impacts public health and the country’s economy,” Schillaci said. The Ministry’s strategies aim to promote healthy lifestyles from a young age. At parliamentary level, work is underway to officially recognize obesity as a disease to be included in the Essential Levels of Assistance (Lea), thus ensuring greater support for those who suffer from it.
The growing problem of youth obesity in Italy requires a coordinated and strategic response from health and political institutions. The growing awareness of the complications associated with obesity could lead to a significant change in national health policies. Only through concrete actions will it be possible to address this health emergency and ensure a better quality of life for future generations.
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