"Covibesity, " a new pandemic. (September 2020) - Khan, Moien AB
Abstract: The COVID-19 lockdown produced behavioral, psychosocial and environmental changes which, through a variety of mechanisms, has led to widespread rapid weight gain amongst certain populations worldwide. We have termed this phenomenon 'covibesity'. There has been an increase in food shopping, food take ways and increase in alcohol sales. Furthermore, the combination of working from home, on-line education and social media usage have all caused screen time to surge. The food industry has intensified on-line advertising focused on children. A swift response is needed from all stakeholders to prevent covibesity becoming a pandemic. Highlights: Impromptu lockdown and self-isolation has triggered rapid weight gain. The COVID pandemic has disrupted normal work patterns and will have enduring effects on obesity and health worldwide. Covibesity needs swift, effective, broad management involving multiple stakeholders.