The issue of obesity in young people under the age of 18 has become a matter of great concern in many countries. This essay aims to examine the reasons for this problem and suggest possible solutions.
One important reason is the low price of junk food, which is a major trigger of obesity in children. These foods are affordable and widely available—even in school canteens. Children under 18 need proper guidance and restrictions regarding what they consume in order to grow up healthy. School canteens should be regulated in terms of the types of food they are allowed to offer. Authorities should pay attention to this issue and work alongside schools to address it.
Another significant factor is that unhealthy foods, such as sweets, chocolate, and high-calorie fast food, are constantly marketed on TV, billboards, and social media. Their main target is often people under the age of 18, many of whom are unaware of the harm that regular consumption can cause. These types of advertisements should be regulated in the same way tobacco and alcohol advertisements are controlled. In addition, such promotions should not be shown during daytime TV hours to minimize exposure to children.
In addition to unhealthy eating, lifestyle also plays a role in the problem. A clear lack of interest in sports or other outdoor activities among teenagers is noticeable in today’s world. Many children prefer spending time in front of screens instead of participating in physical activities. This sedentary lifestyle prevents them from staying active and maintaining a healthy routine. Physical education hours in schools should be increased, and schools should reduce academic pressure to allow more time for exercise.
If governments were to follow these suggestions step by step, childhood obesity could be prevented, and the number of overweight young people would likely decrease.