Childhood obesity in Brazil: lessons to be learned from the Northern Hemisphere

Resumo

Childhood obesity in Brazil has increased by 600% over the past forty years, with studies indicating that more than 30% of the nation’s children are overweight or obese. This epidemic poses a substantial threat to these children, as well as an excess burden to the nation’s health care system. This paper reflects on parallels between Brazil and the U.S., in terms of history, options, and responses to the threat. Individualistic and collectivist approaches are weighed, with the suggestion that a policy-based revision of the nation’s obesogenic environment may be the starting point to safeguard the future of the nation’s children.