Obesity in Tonga

Tonga, officially known as the Kingdom of Tonga, is a Polynesian sovereign state and archipelago located in the South Pacific Ocean, part of the region of Australia and Oceania. It is composed of 169 islands, of which 36 are inhabited. The country has a population of approximately 100,000 people.

In 2016, Tonga had an adult obesity rate of 48.2%, ranking it 7th globally. This high rate of obesity is a significant public health issue, contributing to a range of chronic diseases including diabetes, heart disease, and stroke.

The Tongan government has implemented various measures to combat obesity, including public health campaigns promoting physical activity and healthy eating. The Tonga Health Promotion Foundation is a key organization involved in these efforts. It provides education and resources to help individuals and communities make healthier lifestyle choices.

Despite these efforts, obesity remains a major challenge in Tonga. The country's health system struggles to cope with the high demand for treatment of obesity-related conditions. In response, some Tongans have sought treatment abroad. For example, the Tonga Health Society in New Zealand provides a range of services to Tongan expatriates, including weight loss programs and support groups.