Teen obesity set to surge to nearly 500 million by 2030, warn experts

A major new report has warned that nearly half a billion adolescents worldwide will be living with overweight or obesity by 2030, marking a dramatic escalation in the global health crisis facing young people.

The findings, published by The Lancet Commission on Adolescent Health and Wellbeing, reveal that adolescent health is at a “tipping point,” with rising levels of obesity and mental ill-health overtaking traditional concerns like smoking and alcohol use.

The commission projects that 464 million teenagers will be living with overweight or obesity by the end of the decade — an increase of 143 million compared to 2015. Experts say this surge reflects a global trend that must be urgently addressed through policy, funding, and healthcare reform.

“Adolescence can no longer be ignored... the time to act is now,” the authors urge.

While some progress has been made — such as declining rates of tobacco and alcohol use and increased access to education — the commission warns that these gains are being undermined by the rapid rise in obesity and mental health issues among young people.

Professor Sarah Baird, co-chair of the commission from George Washington University, said: “Overweight and obesity have risen by up to eight-fold in some countries in Africa and Asia over the past three decades. At the same time, adolescent mental health is deteriorating globally.”

The report also warns that current funding for adolescent health is not proportionate to the scale of the problem, and that progress in teenage health is lagging behind improvements seen in early childhood.

Other compounding challenges include the increasing impact of climate change, global conflict and a shift to a digital world. While the online environment presents risks, the report cautions against excessive restrictions, instead calling for a balanced approach that leverages digital platforms for health, education, and employment opportunities.