Obesity in North Korea

Obesity in North Korea

Obesity in North Korea is a health issue that has been gaining attention in recent years. Despite the country's history of food shortages and malnutrition, obesity rates have been on the rise, particularly among the urban population and the elite.

Causes

The primary causes of obesity in North Korea are similar to those in other countries: a combination of unhealthy diet and lack of physical activity. However, there are also some unique factors at play in North Korea. The country's economic development has led to an increase in the availability of processed foods, which are often high in sugar and fat. At the same time, physical activity levels have decreased as more people move to urban areas and adopt sedentary lifestyles.

Health Impact

Obesity is associated with a range of health problems, including heart disease, diabetes, and certain types of cancer. In North Korea, these health issues are exacerbated by the country's limited healthcare infrastructure. Many hospitals and clinics lack the resources to effectively treat obesity and its related conditions.

Healthcare Facilities

There are a few well-known healthcare facilities in North Korea that focus on weight loss and obesity treatment. The Pyongyang Friendship Hospital, for example, offers a comprehensive weight loss program that includes diet counseling, exercise therapy, and medication management. The Ryugyong General Hospital also has a department dedicated to obesity treatment, offering services such as bariatric surgery and nutritional counseling.

Government Response

The North Korean government has recognized obesity as a growing health issue and has implemented several measures to combat it. These include public health campaigns promoting healthy eating and physical activity, as well as regulations on the sale and advertising of junk food.

International Aid

Several international organizations, including the World Health Organization and the United Nations, have provided aid to North Korea to help address its obesity problem. This aid has included funding for healthcare facilities, training for medical professionals, and supplies of healthy food.