Increasing frequency of obesity in Chile

Abstract

Background: An explosive increase in overweight and obesity occurred in Chile since the 90's, without an integrative national policy. Aim: To describe the current obesity situation in Chile and its consequences. Material and Methods: Analysis of the available anthropometric data obtained by an annual census of anthropometry for students (Nutritional Map) collected by the Ministry of Education, and three National Health Surveys (2003, 2009-2010 y 2016-2017) performed by the Ministry of Health in adults. Results: According to the Nutritional Map the prevalence of obesity in 1987 was 7.5% among children of six years of age and increased to 24% in 2018 (8% with severe obesity). At 14 years of age, the frequency of obesity increased from 8 to 15% from 2011 to 2018. In children older than 15 years, overweight and obesity increased from 61 to 74% from 2003 to 2016. In the same period, total obesity increased from 23 to 34% and the frequency of diabetes duplicated from 6 to 12%. The frequency of hypertension did not change, but its prevalence is 45 and 73% after 45 and 65 years of age, respectively. Conclusions: The frequency of obesity will continue to increase, producing severe health risks for the population. Public policies addressing both structural and individual aspects are recommended.