According to the study, the overall national obesity risk index in the country is 7 out of 10, while the forecast for childhood obesity is 4.5 out of 11. About 25% of the adult population in Kyrgyzstan suffers from obesity, with the figure being 23% among men and 27% among women.
Worrying trends are also observed among children: 11% of children aged 5 to 9 years and 8% of adolescents are overweight, with 3% of them already suffering from obesity.
Researchers emphasize that nearly 39% of adults do not meet the minimum physical activity standards recommended by the World Health Organization. The consumption of sugary drinks and fast food has become commonplace for almost a quarter of adolescents. At the same time, only 18% of children and 22% of adults consume an adequate amount of fruits and vegetables.
According to the report, hypertension has been diagnosed in 31% of adults, and 7% have type 2 diabetes. Over the past five years, the mortality rate from obesity-related diseases has increased by 14%.
The economic consequences are also significant: experts estimate that by 2030, obesity-related diseases could reduce Kyrgyzstan's GDP by more than 2% per year. The report notes that the country faces a dual problem: on one hand, there are issues of undernutrition and nutrient deficiencies, while on the other hand, the proportion of the population with excess weight is growing, especially in urban areas.
The authors of the report urge authorities to strengthen preventive measures: limit the advertising of unhealthy products, increase taxes on sugary drinks, expand school nutrition programs, and make a healthy lifestyle more accessible. Experts warn that without systemic steps, obesity could become one of the main threats to the health of the nation and the country's economy.
