Marking World Obesity Day, European Commissioner for Health and Animal Welfare Olivér Várhelyi warned that rising obesity rates are becoming a major challenge for Europe’s health systems, economies and societies.
In a message shared on social media, Várhelyi stressed that obesity must be treated as more than a personal health concern.
“Obesity is not only a health issue — it is a major challenge for Europe’s health systems, societies and economies,” he wrote.
According to the European Commission, more than half of adults in the EU are now overweight, while around 30% of young people are overweight or obese. The consequences are far-reaching.
“Obesity is a major driver of diabetes and cardiovascular diseases, the leading cause of death in Europe,” Várhelyi said.
