Study sounds alarm on obesity-linked illnesses among SA children
A new health study has revealed a worrying rise in serious illnesses linked to obesity among South African children, some as young as five.
Researchers say urgent action must be taken to avoid long-term health consequences.
More children in South Africa are now being diagnosed with conditions typically seen in adults, such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and high cholesterol.
This is according to a decade-long study by the South African Medical Research Council and Durban’s Inkosi Albert Luthuli Central Hospital.
Researchers assessed over 400 obese children between 2012 and 2022.
They found nearly half had hypertension, while others showed early signs of Type 2 diabetes.
Experts blame unhealthy diets, sugary drinks, excessive screen time, and a lack of physical activity.
One of the study’s authors has described the findings as a red flag, warning that urgent lifestyle changes are needed to avoid a future health crisis.
The study calls for regular screening of children for obesity and related conditions.
It also says there's a need for more recreational spaces to help promote active lifestyles.
