Obesity in Ukraine is a health issue. Overall, 53% are considered overweight and 20% meet the definition of obesity. The Donetsk and Poltava regions are considered the most overweight. The lack of a healthy diet has been cited as a cause of obesity.
Overview
The percentage of overweight Ukrainians is at 53% of the population, and the percentage of those who meet the definition of obese is 20%.[1] Statistics show that Ukrainians continue to gain weight.[1] Doctors claim that the worst-affected regions are Donetsk and Poltava.[1]Crimea is considered "the most slender region of the country",[1] and the percentage of overweight people there is 49,7%; the percentage who meet the definition of obesity is 12,3%.[1]
Causes
The Ukrainian Health Ministry stated in late 2012 that 70% of Ukrainians do not eat enough fruits and vegetables.[2] Eating the wrong food can "lead to a deficiency of essential nutrients in the body, digestive system and heart, obesity, diabetes and even cancer."[2]