WHO highlights diet-related diseases

The World Health Organisation (WHO) has highlighted the increasing threat of chronic diseases linked to poor diets.

These diseases are particularly on the rise in the developing world and are inextricably linked to the economic crisis, according to the health group.

Dr Margaret Chan, director-general of WHO, told the Economic and Social Council 2009 High-level Segment in Geneva that the globalization of food production means that this crisis is affecting all countries.

"I am referring to the dramatic rise of diet-related chronic diseases, especially in the developing world. This trend has, in turn, been exacerbated by the financial crisis and the food crisis," she said.

"Processed foods, rich in fats and sugar and low in essential nutrients, become the cheapest way to fill a hungry stomach. This is the type of diet linked to the rise of chronic diseases."

Dr Chan went on to call for more cooperation between countries on issues such as climate change and a renewed focus on health.

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