When is World Obesity Day?
World Obesity Day occurs on October 11th.
What is World Obesity Day?
Being overweight is frustrating. It’s not just uncomfortable. It brings shame, prejudice, and extra medical challenges. Obesity is a global problem, but we can fight back. World Obesity Day is a chance to organize our efforts and devise practical solutions to the world obesity epidemic.
Call it counterintuitive, but weight stigma often deters obese people from exercise. It’s true. Stigmas discourage folks. Weight discrimination contributes to anxiety, depression, and shorter lifespans. That’s on top of the medical issues already inherent in obesity, like higher risks for heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and strokes.
So what do we do? Let’s start by acknowledging that weight is not determined by willpower alone. That oversimplifies the issue. World Obesity Day is a day to learn about obesity—and unlearn the myths we tell ourselves.
Fun facts about World Obesity Day!
- The World Health Organization estimates that more than 1.9 billion adults were overweight and 650 million were obese in 2016.
- Obesity occurs when a person consumes more calories than they expend. That means increased physical activity can usually overcome obesity.
- More than 35% of American adults under 40 are obese.
- The Pacific islands are home to many of the most obese nations in the world.
How to celebrate World Obesity Day:
- Look up myths about obesity. You might be glad to discover that you’re wrong about a thing or two. It’s an exercise in compassion.
- Volunteer your time and your resources. Join the campaign to fight obesity and the stigmas that it brings.
- Eat healthy foods in moderate quantities, exercise daily, and drink more water than other beverages.
What’s the hashtag for World Obesity Day?
Use #WorldObesityDay on social media to support the cause.