Rising obesity could cost Uzbekistan $21.6 billion by 2060, experts warn

According to the Sanitary-Epidemiological Committee, more than half of the country's adult population is overweight. Nearly one in five people aged 18–64 is clinically obese, while the average body mass index (BMI) has reached 26.5 kg/m², the highest level in Central Asia.

Nearly half of the world's population is overweight

New data published by the Our World in Data platform, based on figures from the World Health Organization (WHO), show that 45% of the global population is overweight.

Among the 199 countries and territories included in the dataset, the highest prevalence was recorded in Pacific island states and territories, where 90–91% of the population is overweight. Samoa topped the global ranking.

The problem is also widespread in developed countries. The share of overweight people stands at 71% in the United States, 70% in the United Arab Emirates, and 62% in the United Kingdom.

Japan remains a notable exception, with an overweight prevalence of just 24%. Health experts attribute this to the country's dietary habits, active lifestyle, and the widespread practice of eating until about 80% full.

Uzbekistan ranks first in Central Asia

According to the data, 64% of Uzbekistan's population is overweight, placing the country 59th globally and first in Central Asia.

Turkmenistan and Tajikistan each recorded a prevalence of 58%, ranking 88th and 89th worldwide, respectively. Kazakhstan, Russia, and Kyrgyzstan each stood at 56%, while Belarus recorded 55%.

Over the past 44 years, overweight prevalence has increased across all Central Asian countries, but the sharpest rise has been recorded in Uzbekistan. The share has climbed from 28% in 1980 to 64% today, driven by unhealthy diets, sedentary lifestyles, and rapid urbanization.

High salt intake and poor diet among key risk factors

Health experts identify excessive salt consumption as one of the leading contributors to obesity and related diseases in Uzbekistan. The average daily salt intake reaches 14.9 grams, almost three times higher than the WHO's recommended limit of 5 grams.

Dietary habits also remain a concern. About one-third of the population does not consume enough fruit and vegetables, while 46% of citizens have elevated cholesterol levels. Combined with insufficient physical activity and high-calorie diets, these factors are contributing to rising obesity rates.

Children increasingly affected

The World Obesity Atlas estimates that nearly 3 million children and adolescents in Uzbekistan are overweight. The report also indicates that more than 40% of non-pregnant women aged 15–49 are obese.

The growing prevalence of excess weight is contributing to a rise in hypertension and type 2 diabetes across the country.

Experts warn that if current trends continue, obesity could cost Uzbekistan's economy $21.6 billion by 2060, equivalent to around 4.7% of the country's gross domestic product.