Obesity in Cook Islands

The Cook Islands is a self-governing territory in free association with New Zealand, located in the South Pacific Ocean region of Australia and Oceania. It is composed of 15 islands with a total land area of 236.7 square kilometers. The capital and largest city is Avarua.

In 2016, the Cook Islands had an adult obesity rate of 55.9%, ranking it second globally. This high rate of obesity is a significant public health concern and has been linked to a variety of health problems, including diabetes, heart disease, and certain types of cancer.

Several factors contribute to the high obesity rate in the Cook Islands. These include a diet high in processed foods and low in fresh fruits and vegetables, a lack of physical activity, and genetic factors. The traditional Polynesian body ideal also plays a role, with larger body sizes often being associated with wealth and status.

To combat the obesity epidemic, the Cook Islands government has implemented various health initiatives and programs. These include public education campaigns about healthy eating and physical activity, as well as efforts to improve access to healthy foods.

One well-known healthcare facility in the Cook Islands is the Rarotonga Hospital, which offers a range of services including diet and nutrition counseling. There are also several private clinics and health centers that provide weight loss and obesity treatment services.