Taiwan faces rising obesity concerns in adults and children

Health reports in Taiwan highlight rising concerns regarding obesity among both adults and children. Data from the Taiwanese Obesity Medical Association indicates that nearly 10 million adults in Taiwan are actively managing their weight. Common areas for fat accumulation include the abdomen, thighs, and buttocks. Medical experts suggest that sedentary lifestyles, high sugar intake, and stress contribute to abdominal fat. Non-invasive options like low-energy green light lasers are being used to target fat cells without causing tissue necrosis.

In children aged 7 to 12, the overweight and obesity rate has reached 23.6%, meaning approximately one in four children faces weight issues. A survey by the National Health Administration found that 46.8% of caregivers fail to correctly identify if their child is overweight, often due to the misconception that children will simply grow taller and lose weight later.

Health officials emphasize that childhood obesity increases the risk of early-onset hypertension, fatty liver, and type 2 diabetes. Current statistics show that only 35% of children meet the World Health Organization's recommendation for daily physical activity, and 96% do not consume the recommended daily amount of fruits and vegetables. Experts recommend managing weight through healthy lifestyle habits starting from pregnancy and early childhood.