A new UNICEF report reveals that globally, more school-age children and adolescents are obese than underweight, with 188 million affected. Obesity surpasses underweight in all regions except sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia. The number of overweight children has doubled in 25 years, reaching 391 million. High obesity rates are seen in Pacific Island nations and high-income countries. The report highlights the concerning shift towards ultra-processed foods and the impact on children's health and development. While underweight children have decreased, undernutrition remains a significant concern in low- and middle-income countries.

Prepared by Olivia Bennett and reviewed by editorial team.