Experts warn that if current trends continue, up to 50% of South African women could be classified as obese by 2030. According to the World Obesity Atlas 2022-2023, this would represent the highest obesity rate on the African continent. Meanwhile, the South African National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey ( SANHANES ) recently revealed that the country already has one of the highest rates of obesity in Africa and globally.
The survey indicates that 68% of women and 31% of men in South Africa are either overweight or obese. Causes Speaking to The Citizen , registered dietitian Humbulani Rangadi explained that the causes of obesity are multifaceted, involving both environmental and personal factors. “Mostly, people become obese due to poor eating habits.
People tend to consume more energy-dense foods, including sugary, processed, and fast foods, while leading sedentary lifestyles. This imbalance between energy intake and output leads to weight gain,” Rangadi said. He also highlighted the role of poverty and lack of access to nutrition education.
He added: “A lack of access to nutritious foods, or poverty in other words, means people eat what they can afford.” READ MORE: ‘Many households are food insecure’: Survey reveals ‘grim picture’ for ordinary, poor South Africans Preventing obesity through lifestyle changes Rangadi also noted that genetic factors can contribute to obesity, emphasising the importance of adopting preventive measures, such as eating m.