People are expending less energy on traditional modes of travel such as walking and cycling, and spending more time in cars, buses and on motorcycles, Chen says.
"Besides reduced physical activity and the increasing accessibility and affordability of food, there is a cultural element behind the soaring overweight and obesity rates," he says.
In China's traditional cultural context, being fat was been taken as a sign of affluence. Fat babies were assumed to be healthier, a chubby husband was thought to be rich and a good provider, and it has been common for grandparents to dote and reward a child with food."
Chen says more efforts must be made to raise the awareness about healthy living through public advertising that encourages people to be more physically active and labeling that shows shoppers the calories content of the food and what it means for their health.
Economic incentives might be more effective. Chen says a differentiated contribution system based on each employee's health indicators, including weight, could help keep more waistlines in check.
