Mirian Gom 
ABUJA, Nigeria- Childhood obesity has now overtaken underweight as the most common form of malnutrition among school-aged children and adolescents, UNICEF warns in a new report.
The study, Feeding Profit: How Food Environments are Failing Children, released Tuesday, reveals that one in ten children worldwide—about 188 million—are living with obesity.
Since 2000, global childhood obesity rates for ages 5–19 have tripled from 3 per cent to 9.4 per cent, while underweight cases dropped from nearly 13 per cent to 9.2 per cent.
“When we talk about malnutrition, we are no longer just talking about underweight children,” UNICEF Executive Director Catherine Russell said. “Obesity is a growing concern that can impact children’s health and development.”
Russell highlighted the role of ultra-processed foods, increasingly replacing fruits, vegetables and proteins, particularly in schools and homes. The report notes obesity now exceeds underweight in every region except sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia.
The findings warn of a “double burden” in many countries, where stunting and obesity coexist. “Nutritious and affordable food must be available to every child,” Russell said, urging stronger policies to support parents and ensure healthier food choices.
The rise in obesity is attributed to the aggressive marketing and accessibility of ultra-processed foods, amplified through digital platforms targeting children. UNICEF cautions that without urgent intervention, millions of children risk long-term health complications, including diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
About the Author
Oluwatobi Adu 
Oluwafunbi Bello 
Korede Abdullah 