The Rising Tide of Childhood and Adolescent Obesity/Overweight in Australia
The Rising Tide of Childhood and Adolescent Obesity/Overweight in Australia Australia is facing a significant public health challenge with the rise of obesity and overweight among children and adolescents ( Stearn, 2023 ). According to the latest available data, one in four children and adolescents aged 2–17 is living with overweight or obesity, representing approximately 1.2 million young Australians ( Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW), 2020 ) . This issue poses immediate health risks and forecasts grave implications for the future well-being of these individuals and the health system at large ( Bryant, 2016 ). Governmental Acknowledgement and Action Top of Form Recognizing the severity of the obesity epidemic, the Australian government has placed this issue on its agenda, indicating a growing awareness and willingness to tackle the problem head-on ( Buse et al., 2012 ). The government has a role in acknowledging and addressing the multifaceted challenge...