Childhood obesity

13.12.2016

Question for written answer P-009380-16
to the Commission
Rule 130
Claudiu Ciprian Tănăsescu (S&D) , Daciana Octavia Sârbu (S&D)

Childhood obesity has reached alarming levels in the European Union, with 14 million overweight children. 400 000 new cases are recorded every year. Specialists are calling for obesity to be recognised as a chronic disorder. Food that is rich in sugars and harmful fats and the lack of physical activity are the main causes of obesity, which is in turn the main cause of chronic disorders such as type II diabetes, cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure, strokes and some types of cancer.

Statistics produced by the World Health Organisation (WHO) show that at least 41 million children are obese or overweight, and most cases are being recorded in poor and developing countries. The proportion of overweight children aged under five rose by 6.1% in the last 25 years, with more than 10 million new cases being recorded.

If the current trend continues, the number of overweight children will reach 70 million by 2025. Alongside excessive urbanisation, a further alarming factor identified by specialists is increasing exposure to advertising for unhealthy food and soft drinks, particularly in developing countries.

What strategy is the Commission considering — in cooperation with Member States — with a view to carrying out information campaigns on the risk of obesity and the consumption of food leading to excessive weight gain?