The evolution of obesity in Spain

Considered the epidemic of the 21st century, obesity is a worldwide problem, affecting 260 million adults and 12 million children in the European Union (EU) alone. In Spain, adult and child obesity rates are increasing, in particular for women. Income-related inequalities in adult obesity in Spain also have increased over time, especially for women aged over 45. Although some regulatory initiatives have been approved to tackle child obesity, an evaluation of the effectiveness of alternative measures in other countries, such as “fat taxes” and improving education and availability of information for the population, would provide a better understanding of their application in the Spanish context.