Health Stretched Waistbands: Bangkok Tops Obesity Charts

[webfact]

File photo courtesy of Wikipedia

 

A staggering 56% of Bangkok's residents are grappling with abdominal obesity, a figure starkly contrasting with a national average of 39.4%. This jarring statistic was highlighted by Public Health Minister Somsak Thepsutin, underscoring a growing health concern in the bustling capital.

 

With Bangkokians boasting higher rates of diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease compared to their provincial counterparts, this issue poses a major public health challenge.

 

During a major non-communicable disease (NCD) event in Bangkok, the minister elaborated on the alarming rise in health issues related to lifestyle choices in the city.

 

A recent health study unveiled scary figures: 12.5% of the population in Bangkok suffer from diabetes compared to just 9.5% countrywide. Such disparities underscore the urgent need for targeted health interventions in the capital.

 

The issue of NCDs is not one to be ignored, as it not only impacts individual quality of life but also places a burgeoning burden on health care systems. As urbanisation and fast-paced city life prevail, the health repercussions are felt deeply among Bangkokians. Addressing these concerns could have substantial benefits for the nation's overall health and wellbeing.

 

Efforts to control NCDs must focus not only on treating these illnesses but also on encouraging healthier lifestyle choices. Public health campaigns and programmes geared towards promoting physical activity and balanced diets are now paramount. The health ministry is keen on not only raising awareness but also implementing practical measures to curb this worrying trend.

 

This situation, now taking centre stage in Thailand's health conversation, spotlights the need for a cohesive approach to urban health challenges. The nation watches closely as Bangkok takes steps to combat this trend and improve the health prospects of its residents.

 

   Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post 2025-05-19

 

 

 

[Harrisfan]

Photo shows a white girl

[hotchilli]

4 hours ago, webfact said:

A staggering 56% of Bangkok's residents are grappling with abdominal obesity, a figure starkly contrasting with a national average of 39.4%. This jarring statistic was highlighted by Public Health Minister Somsak Thepsutin, underscoring a growing health concern in the bustling capital.

 

Thais love affair with sugar... give it another 10 years and see the diabetes figures soar.

[gejohesch]

2 minutes ago, hotchilli said:

Thais love affair with sugar... give it another 10 years and see the diabetes figures soar.

Yes, sugar everywhere. Disgusting! 

[newbee2022]

4 hours ago, Harrisfan said:

Photo shows a white girl

Yeah, A whiter shade of pale 😂

[diveasia666]

carbs, extra sugar and deep frying... no rocket science.

[Nickcage49]

Well they've got that going for them.

 

I remember when I first came to Thailand 25 years ago. Almost no Thais were overweight.

 

You can thank my lovely America for exporting all the crap Thais now enjoy.

[lordgrinz]

5 minutes ago, diveasia666 said:

carbs, extra sugar and deep frying... no rocket science.

 

Yup, 10 Lbs of rice, 1 ounce of meat and very little vegetables. Cook it in greasy pan and add sugar, I can eat healthier Thai dishes in American than I can here.

[NorthernRyland]

6 hours ago, webfact said:

A staggering 56% of Bangkok's residents are grappling with abdominal obesity

 

No more fried chicken for breakfast guys!

 

[khunPer]

Higher minimum wages equals larger waist, a scientific study found about a decade ago. Seems right when looking at Southeast Asian countries, where more sweets and so-called junk food enters the market when more funds are available for spending...

[Jack Bieser]

Maybe that's why I feel so bloated When I visit Thailand.

[hotsun]

6 hours ago, lordgrinz said:

 

Yup, 10 Lbs of rice, 1 ounce of meat and very little vegetables. Cook it in greasy pan and add sugar, I can eat healthier Thai dishes in American than I can here.

For 10x the price

[NickyLouie]

I no like phatties, it's not nice