Bangkok waistlines widen: Over half suffer from abdominal obesity — well above Thailand’s 39pc national average

AI Summary

Over 56% of Bangkok residents suffer from abdominal obesity, significantly higher than the 39.4% national average, increasing their risk of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) like diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart disease. Public Health Minister Somsak Thepsutin revealed these figures during a public health event aimed at raising awareness about the disproportionate impact of NCDs on Bangkok residents. The capital also sees a higher diabetes diagnosis rate (12.5%) compared to the national average (9.5%). This rise in NCDs poses a significant concern for Thailand's public health system.