Childhood obesity, food insecurity and climate change : a tale of two island groups

Abstract

The Canary Islands and Malta are two island groups currently experiencing high childhood overweight and obesity rates, with prevalence reported at over 40% for Malta and 44.2% for the Canary Islands [using World Health Organisation (WHO) cut-off criteria]. This study compares the childhood obesity situation in both islands, taking into consideration their specific vulnerabilities, the main initiatives to address obesity in both countries, and reports on progress achieved. Children’s dietary and physical activity behaviours in both islands continue to be problematic, but other concerns such as the reliance on food imports and potential climate change impacts remain. Some strategies and initiatives are in place, but there are few progress indicators documented. Public health proposals should investigate the broader causes of obesity, and the potential link between childhood obesity and the specific vulnerabilities of small islands, to find more targeted solutions.