A recent World Health Organization report has revealed that, 9.6% of Cameroon’s population is obese. The findings also say obesity and overweight are common in women, a percentage of 14.3% against 4.9% for men. Statistics from the ministry of public health has also indicated that more than 2 million Cameroonians are overweight.

The WHO report called on governments to use fiscal measures proposed in the Global Plan of Action for the fight against obesity. The plan calls for an increase of at least 20% of the selling price of sugary drinks to reduce consumption of these products.

Dr Douglas Bettcher, Director of WHO’s no communicable disease prevention department hinted that the implementation of these strategies allow regression in obesity, diabetes and tooth decay. The WHO report encouraged people to consume fresh fruits and vegetables and do regular physical activity to aspire to better health.

By Chi Prudence Asong