The Gauteng Department of Health has raised concern over growing obesity levels among children, revealing that nearly a quarter of young people in South Africa (SA) are either overweight or obese.
According to the department, 23% of children aged between six and 14 fall into the overweight or obese category, a statistic health officials say reflects a broader shift towards sedentary lifestyles and poor dietary habits.
Public health experts have long warned that childhood obesity significantly increases the risk of developing non-communicable diseases later in life, including diabetes, hypertension and heart disease. The department says the figures underline the urgent need for early intervention and sustained prevention strategies.
Gauteng Health MEC Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko said obesity prevention must begin early and involve families, schools and communities.
“We work with schools, parents, healthcare workers and partners to promote healthy eating, regular physical activity and supportive environments for our children,” she said.
“Prevention starts at home, at school and in our communities. We must encourage our children to move more, eat better and build healthy habits that will protect them for life.”
The department says it will continue to monitor obesity trends as part of broader efforts to curb lifestyle-related diseases across the province.
–ChannelAfrica–
