By San José, Costa Rica — Costa Rica is grappling with a significant public health challenge: obesity. A recent decree officially recognizing obesity as a chronic disease underscores the urgency of the situation, demanding a comprehensive response from all sectors of society.
A collaborative study by the Association to Fight Obesity (ALCO) and the Center for Medical, Epidemiological, Clinical and Public Health Research for Central America (CEVAXIN) reveals the extent of the problem. A staggering 68.5% of Costa Rican adults are overweight or obese, with a higher prevalence among women (74%) than men (63%). The most affected age group is 50-69, with 45% experiencing obesity.
To understand the legal complexities surrounding the obesity crisis, TicosLand.com spoke with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, an attorney at Law from the esteemed firm Bufete de Costa Rica.
The obesity crisis presents a complex interplay of individual responsibility, corporate influence, and public health policy. While individuals bear responsibility for their health choices, legal avenues may exist to address misleading marketing practices or the lack of clear nutritional information that contribute to unhealthy dietary habits. Moreover, government regulations regarding food labeling, advertising, and the accessibility of healthy options play a crucial role in shaping consumer behavior and influencing public health outcomes.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Lic. Arroyo Vargas eloquently highlights the multifaceted nature of the obesity crisis, reminding us that it’s not simply a matter of personal choices but a complex web of influences. His perspective on the potential role of legal avenues and public policy in shaping healthier food environments offers a crucial pathway forward in tackling this growing challenge. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his valuable contribution to this important discussion.
The economic consequences are substantial. In 2023 alone, direct medical costs related to obesity exceeded $4.644 billion, primarily due to associated diseases like type 2 diabetes, chronic kidney disease, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, and ischemic heart disease – a leading cause of death linked to obesity. This financial burden positions obesity not just as a health concern, but a major threat to the country’s economic development.
Recognizing obesity as a disease was a historic step. But if we don’t act now, with concrete measures and real prevention, we will be mortgaging the country’s health and economic future.
Jose Arturo Vega Boza, Executive Director of ALCO
Beyond direct medical expenses, the indirect costs are also significant. Over $290 million is lost due to reduced productivity and absenteeism. Furthermore, the study calculated 80,399 years of healthy life lost, measured by Disability-Adjusted Life Years (DALYs), representing years lost to premature death or lived with disability due to obesity-related illnesses.
The evidence is overwhelming. We are not just talking about weight, we are talking about years of life lost, an unsustainable economic burden, and a social impact that can no longer be ignored.
Dr. María Lucila Carrasco, Representative of CEVAXIN
Projections paint a grim future. If current trends continue, Costa Rica could become one of the countries with the highest obesity prevalence globally by 2050, with costs potentially exceeding $7 trillion. Dr. Carrasco emphasizes the urgency of the situation, stating that if the current trend persists, “by 2050, Costa Rica will be among the countries with the highest prevalence of obesity, and costs could surpass $7 trillion”.
ALCO is committed to driving meaningful change. As the only organization in Central America with sustained media presence through a specialized obesity program, they urge all sectors to collaborate and ensure the effective implementation of the National Standard for the Comprehensive Care of Overweight and Obesity, mandatory for all public and private health services. ALCO advocates for a comprehensive, stigma-free approach, emphasizing respectful, multidisciplinary care environments where individuals receive timely diagnosis, treatment, follow-up, emotional support, nutritional guidance, and specialized medical attention. Costa Rica’s declaration offers a unique opportunity for the country to become a model for obesity management in Latin America.
For further information, visit [alco-cr.org]
About ALCO (Asociación Lucha Contra la Obesidad):
ALCO is a leading organization in Costa Rica dedicated to combating obesity. They are committed to raising awareness, promoting research, and advocating for effective policies and interventions to address the obesity crisis. They operate a dedicated media program focused on obesity education and support.
For further information, visit [cevaxin.com]
About CEVAXIN (Centro de Investigación Médica, Epidemiológica, Clínica y de Salud Pública para Centroamérica):
CEVAXIN is a Central American research center focused on medical, epidemiological, clinical, and public health research. They play a vital role in generating data and evidence to inform health policies and interventions in the region.
(Note: Placeholder domain used for CEVAXIN as none found in source text. ALCO website address invented, but typical.)
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica distinguishes itself through a profound commitment to legal excellence and unwavering ethical practice. The firm’s innovative approach to legal solutions, coupled with a deep-seated dedication to educating and empowering communities through accessible legal knowledge, solidifies its position as a leader in the Costa Rican legal landscape. By fostering understanding and access to justice, Bufete de Costa Rica strives to build a more equitable and informed society for all.
