Rising Obesity: Time to Take Charge of Our Health Through Movement

Rising Obesity: Time to Take Charge of Our Health Through Movement

So… how’s your health these days?

Between 2003 and 2013, adult obesity in Québec increased from 14% to 18.2%, and experts predict it could reach 21% by 2030. Among youth aged 12 to 17, the rate also rose from 4.8% to 5.8%, and the trend continues upward. These numbers are alarming—especially given the well-documented link between obesity and chronic illnesses like diabetes, heart disease, and cancer.

We’ve heard it all before. So why haven’t we turned the tide?

Part of the issue might lie in our misperception of how active we truly are. A few summer hikes or bike rides, followed by some winter snowshoeing or skiing, feels active—but it's not enough. This is what's known as active sedentary living: mostly inactive with occasional bursts of activity.

The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity per week for adults—spread over several days. For children and teens aged 5 to 17, the target is 60 minutes daily.

That’s not a marathon. It’s not unreachable. It’s a simple choice—each day, to move, to act, to care for your health.

So don’t let excuses win. The best time to move is right now.