In a new discussion paper titled Overcoming obesity: An initial economic analysis, the McKinsey Global Institute (MGI) offers independent insights into the issue. The MGI hopes that this initial economic analysis of obesity will help in finding a viable and effective programme and strategy that would contribute to solving the problem. In order to do this, the MGI closely researched and analysed 44 measures addressing obesity. Some of them are still only at the discussion stage but others are already being piloted, often in the form of public health campaigns. These measures include subsidised school meals, strict nutrition labelling or restrictions on the advertising of unhealthy food.
Global impacts of obesity
Obesity is a complex and systemic problem. It has numerous causes and is interlinked with various aspects of modern life. Food is affordable today and our diets are not always healthy. Stress and a lack of physical activitiy are widespread phenomena. But obesity can be also caused by a damaged gut microbiome. To sum up, the reasons are many. Currently there are more than two billion people (almost 30% of the global population) who are overweight or obese. This number is almost two-and-a-half times higher than the number of people who are undernourished.
The global economic impact of obesity is almost the same as that of smoking or armed violence, war and terrorism. Growing evidence suggests that obesity has several substantial impacts on the productivity of employees thus affected. Another finding that could disturb our financial minds is that in developed countries obesity and associated diseases account for almost 20% of all health care spending. Thus it is clear that the economic implications are serious. Obesity is not only threatening health; it is also a major economic problem.
First step so far
This research, however, is only a first step on the path to a desirable comprehensive strategy. It is more of a starting point, a guide for people who are trying to find solutions. The authors suggest it is similar to the sea maps used in the 16th century: some islands are missing and not everything is precise but, overall, some basic directions or trends definitely have been identified. The authors anticipate more evidence and further insights as time progresses, with an increasing number of people gradually becoming involved in the joint effort.
The whole study is available for download at this page. You can also read specific recommendations on how to fight obesity in the second article on this topic we are going to publish this week.
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