Every year on March 4, World Obesity Day is marked around the world

Since 2020, World Obesity Day has been marked around the world on March 4 every year. The day was initiated by the World Obesity Federation, a non-profit organization that officially cooperates with the Ministry of Health. Obesity is a complex interaction of various factors for different people in different countries and cultures. One universal strategy for everyone will never be the solution. That is why this year’s World Obesity Day opens up a broader discussion.

Researchers of the State Institution «Marzieiev Institute for Public Health of the National Academy of Medical Sciences of Ukraine» have carried out thorough research on the genetic and family factors that influence body mass index (BMI) and physical activity levels among Ukrainian adolescents. The scientists analyzed data from more than 400 families to determine how heredity and home environment shape the risks of overweight and obesity.

It turned out that body mass index is 41% determined by genetic factors. That is, if parents are overweight, the risk of their children becoming overweight is significantly higher. The closest correlation for this indicator was found to be higher in pairs with the mother than with the father.

Physical activity is also «inherited.» And although genes play a smaller role (about 23%), the habit of being active or inactive is often formed in the family. If parents spend their time passively, children are more likely to adopt this behavior pattern.

The statistics obtained during the study are alarming: 17.5% of boys and almost a third of girls (32.7%) are physically inactive.

This is not a sentence, but a call to action! The fight against obesity is not just an individual responsibility. It is a family matter. It is pointless to urge a teenager to exercise more if it is customary to spend evenings in front of the TV at home. It is pointless to treat obesity in a child without paying attention to the eating habits of the whole family.

Prevention is best done together! Joint walks, family bike rides, healthy eating in the kitchen are not just pleasant moments, but also an investment in children’s health. The best prevention is one that unites generations.

Learn more at https://doi.org/10.26641/2307-0404.2022.4.271223 

Omelchenko E, Yelizarova O, Polka N, Polka O, Hozak S. Heritability of body mass index and physical activity in Ukrainian adolescents. Med. perspekt. [Internet]. 2022Dec.29 [cited 2026Mar.4];27(4):192-9. Available from: https://journals.uran.ua/index.php/2307-0404/article/view/271223

(date of publication on the website: 04.03.2026)