A growing focus on weight management is sweeping the Chinese mainland, with 70% of adults now prioritizing healthier lifestyles amid rising public health awareness. A white paper released at an obesity prevention conference in Foshan, Guangdong Province, reveals widespread aspirations for weight loss and highlights gaps in self-assessment of health risks.
According to the document, over 60% of adults are actively investing time and effort toward weight control. However, nearly half misjudge their body mass index (BMI), while 14% erroneously classify themselves as “healthy” despite falling into overweight categories. Liang Xiaofeng, vice chairman of the Chinese Preventive Medicine Association, warns that such miscalculations exacerbate challenges in preventing chronic diseases linked to obesity, including diabetes and cardiovascular conditions.
Current National Health Commission data shows 34.3% of adults are overweight and 16.4% obese. Without intervention, these figures could climb to 70.5% by 2030, leading to $61 billion in projected medical costs. In response, authorities launched a nationwide campaign in June 2024 to establish obesity prevention centers in hospitals, with near-universal coverage expected by mid-2025.
The white paper notes dietary shifts are already underway, with over half of the population reducing oil, salt, and sugar intake and embracing meal replacements. It calls for stronger societal support through education and science-based strategies tailored to public needs. As health consciousness reshapes daily habits, China’s battle against obesity enters a critical phase.
