World Obesity Day (WOD) is annually observed across the globe on 4th March to create awareness about the risks of obesity and to promote practical solutions to end the growing global obesity crisis. The WOD was organised by the World Obesity Federation (WOF).
- 4th March 2025 marks the observance of the 11th WOD.
- The theme of WOD 2025 is “Changing Systems, Healthier Lives.”
Background
i.In 2015, WOD was established on 11 October as an annual campaign to encourage and support practical activities that help people achieve and maintain a healthy weight, thereby reducing global obesity.
- Initially, WOD was observed on 11 October till 2019. Since 2020, the World Obesity Day date has been changed to 4 March.
ii.The first ever WOD was observed on 11 October 2015.
What is Obesity?
i.Overweight and obesity are defined as abnormal or excessive fat accumulation that presents a health risk.
- A Body Mass Index (BMI) of over 25 is considered overweight, and over 30 is obese.
ii.Overweight and obesity can develop over time when you consume more calories than you use.
iii.The fundamental cause of obesity and overweight is an energy imbalance between calories consumed and calories expended.
PM Narendra Modi has launched a nationwide anti-obesity campaign, urging Indians to reduce oil consumption by 10%
In March 2025, Prime Minister (PM) Narendra Modi launched a nationwide anti-obesity campaign, urging Indians to reduce oil consumption by 10%, highlighting its role in rising obesity rates.
- On the 119th episode of Mann Ki Baat, he referenced a research that found that obesity affects one in every eight persons worldwide, with cases among children quadrupling in recent years.
i.Annually, India consumes 260 lakh tonnes of edible oil, of which 160 lakh tonnes are imported. The country’s per capita consumption is 17 kilograms per person per year, though it varies across regions.
ii.PM Modi encouraged citizens to adopt healthier eating habits by consciously reducing oil consumption. He suggested that individuals aim to cut their oil usage by 10% each month, emphasizing that small dietary changes can contribute to a healthier and disease-free future.
iii.This call to action emphasizes the necessity of addressing obesity at both the individual and community levels, stressing the need for a fitter and healthier India.
About World Obesity Federation (WOF):
President – Dr Simón Barquera
Headquarters – London, United Kingdom (UK)
Established – 1967
