Obesity rates in Argentina reach 39% of adults

Recent health reports highlight a significant obesity crisis in Argentina. According to the World Obesity Atlas 2025, 39% of adults in the country live with obesity, while 20.4% of children and adolescents aged 5 to 17 are also affected. Medical experts note that obesity is the primary driver of hepato-cardio-reno-metabolic syndrome, a major medical challenge.

A study conducted by the Clinical Nutrition and Metabolism Service of the Hospital de Clínicas (UBA) revealed a critical gap in diagnosis. Among 320 participants evaluated during the Obesity Week 2026 campaign, 80% presented with obesity, yet only 36% had ever received a formal diagnosis from a healthcare professional. Dr. Pilar Quevedo emphasized the need for active detection strategies, noting that simple measurements of weight, height, and waist circumference can facilitate early diagnosis.

Concurrently, advancements in pharmacological treatments are becoming more accessible. Semaglutide, such as Novo Nordisk’s Wegovy, has shown an average weight reduction of 17%, with some patients achieving 21%. Specialists indicate that increased economic accessibility to these treatments may help address obesity as a chronic disease and mitigate cardiovascular risks, including heart attacks and strokes.