In observance of World Obesity Day on March 4, the Rotary Club of Antigua joined fellow clubs across Rotary District 7030 in highlighting the urgent need to address childhood obesity through the Rotary Moves Initiative, a campaign focused on prevention, awareness and healthier communities.
As part of this effort, the club hosted a panel discussion aimed at raising awareness and encouraging community dialogue around the growing impact of obesity, particularly among children. The discussion brought together leading health professionals who shared their expertise on prevention, nutrition and public health strategies.
The panel featured Dr. Sharon Cordner, Doctor of Internal Medicine; Mrs. Dorothy Graham-Charles, Nutrition Manager at the Medical Benefits Scheme Nutrition Centre; and Ms. Charity Dublin, Public Health Nutritionist from the Ministry of Health, Wellness and the Environment.
Speakers emphasized that obesity is a complex global health issue that requires collective action. Current projections show that by 2035, nearly half of the world’s population, approximately four billion people, could be living with overweight or obesity. Childhood obesity is also rising rapidly, with rates among school-aged children increasing nearly fivefold since 1975, particularly in low- and middle-income countries.
Panelists noted that obesity in childhood often continues into adulthood, increasing the risk of serious non-communicable diseases including diabetes, heart disease and certain cancers.
Globally, nearly three billion people, including more than 400 million school-aged children, are already living with overweight or obesity. Without meaningful intervention, that number is expected to reach four billion by 2035.
The Rotary Club of Antigua believes these outcomes are not inevitable. By increasing awareness, supporting healthier lifestyles, and strengthening community partnerships, meaningful change is possible.
“Addressing childhood obesity requires more than individual effort,” the club noted. “It calls for community engagement, education and policies that support healthier living for everyone.”
The panel discussion forms part of the club’s ongoing commitment to improving community health and supporting initiatives that empower families to make healthier choices. Through the Rotary Moves Initiative, Rotary clubs across the district continue to advocate for prevention, early intervention and equitable access to care.
As the global community observes World Obesity Day, Rotary is encouraging individuals, families, schools and institutions to take action. By understanding obesity rather than stigmatizing it, prioritizing prevention from the earliest years and ensuring equitable access to care, communities can change the trajectory of this growing health challenge.
World Obesity Day serves as a call to action for people everywhere. Together, we can change the story of obesity.