THE IMPACTS OF OBESITY ON PUBLIC HEALTH: AN EVIDENCE-BASED APPROACH

Abstract

This study examined the impacts of obesity on public health through a bibliographic review that brought together recent evidence on epidemiological trends, clinical repercussions, and the social and economic effects associated with excessive body weight, enabling a comprehensive understanding of the phenomenon’s multifactorial nature. The investigation showed that changes in eating patterns, increased consumption of ultra-processed foods, and progressively sedentary routines contribute to rising obesity rates across age groups, highlighting the need for continuous prevention strategies and public policies that promote healthier food environments. The findings revealed that socioeconomic inequalities, limited access to nutritious foods, and reduced opportunities for physical activity intensify vulnerabilities and underscore the importance of interventions tailored to territorial specificities, especially among children, adolescents, and low-income populations. The review also demonstrated that obesity affects work capacity, increases healthcare and economic costs, and generates emotional strain and family-related challenges that reinforce cycles of illness. The evidence points to the relevance of intersectoral actions integrating health, education, social assistance, and urban planning, aiming to strengthen preventive measures and expand comprehensive care strategies designed to reduce the burdens associated with excessive weight.