Thailand
- Overview
- Obesity prevalence
- Trends over time
- Population breakdowns
- Drivers
- Comorbidities
- Health systems
- Policies
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National obesity risk *8/10This is a composite ‘obesity risk’ score (out of 10, the highest risk) based on obesity prevalence, rate of increase, likelihood of meeting the 2025 target, treatment indicator and childhood stunting levels.Childhood obesity risk *7/11This is a ‘risk score’ for each country’s likelihood of having or acquiring a major childhood obesity problem during the 2020s, taking account of current prevalence levels and risk for future obesity (based on stunting among infants, maternal obesity, maternal smoking, and breastfeeding rates).
* Based on estimated data. For more information see Publications
Obesity prevalence
Trends over time
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The report card collates all the most-recent graphics for this country. If you would like to produce a custom report based on selected graphics, just tap the Add to custom PDF button below the graphics you would like to use.Population breakdowns
Drivers
Insufficient activity
Soft drink consumption
Fruit consumption
Vegetable consumption
Fast food consumption
Processed meat consumption
Grains consumption
Depression
Anxiety
Roots of obesity »
Like all chronic diseases, the root causes/drivers of obesity are complex. Select here to view 'other' root causes/drivers.Breastfeeding
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Comorbidities
Health systems
Obesity prevalence
Adults, 2018
| Survey type: | Measured |
| Age: | 15+ |
| Sample size: | 627 |
| Area covered: | Regional |
| References: | Sakboonyarat, B., Pornpongsawad, C., Sangkool, T. et al. Trends, prevalence and associated factors of obesity among adults in a rural community in Thailand: serial cross-sectional surveys, 2012 and 2018. BMC Public Health 20, 850 (2020). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12889-020-09004-w |
| Notes: | NB Small regional survey NOT NATIONAL |
| Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m². | |
Adults, 2014
| Survey type: | Measured |
| Age: | 20+ |
| Sample size: | 15663 |
| Area covered: | National |
| References: | Yan LD, Hanvoravongchai P, Aekplakorn W, Chariyalertsak S, Kessomboon P, Assanangkornchai S, et al. (2020) Universal coverage but unmet need: National and regional estimates of attrition across the diabetes care continuum in Thailand. PLoS ONE 15(1):e0226286. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0226286 |
| Notes: | Adults aged 20 and older with a fasting plasma glucose were included. |
| Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m². | |
Adults, 2009
| Survey type: | Measured |
| Age: | 20+ |
| Sample size: | 19,181 |
| Area covered: | National |
| References: | Wichai Aekplakorn, Rungkarn Inthawong, Pattapong Kessomboon, et al., Prevalence and Trends of Obesity and Association with Socioeconomic Status in Thai Adults: National Health Examination Surveys, 1991–2009, Journal of Obesity, vol. 2014, Article ID 410259, 8 pages, 2014. doi:10.1155/2014/410259 |
| Notes: | In this graph, overweight refers to BMI 25–<30, and obesity as BMI ≥30 kg/m2 |
| Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m². | |
Adults, 2004
| Survey type: | Measured |
| Age: | 18+ |
| Sample size: | 39290 |
| Area covered: | National |
| References: | Aekplakorn W and Mo-Suwan L. (2009). National prevalence of obesity. Prevalence of obesity in Thailand. Obesity Reviews, 10: 589 - 592. |
| Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m². | |
Adults, 2003-2005
| Survey type: | Measured |
| Age: | 19+ |
| Sample size: | 7279 |
| Area covered: | National |
| References: | Jitnarin N, Kosulwat V, Rojroongwasinkul N et al. Prevalence of overweight and obesity in Thai population: Results of the National Thai Food Consumption Survey. 2011;16:e242-e249 |
| Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m². | |
Adults, 2000
| Survey type: | Measured |
| Age: | 35+ |
| Sample size: | 5350 |
| References: | http://www.fnri.dost.gov.ph/files/fnri%20files/nns/factsandfigures2003/anthropometric.pdf last accessed June 14th 2011 |
| Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m². | |
Adults, 1997
| Survey type: | Measured |
| Age: | 20-59 |
| Sample size: | 3220 |
| References: | Aekplakorn W, Chaiyapong Y, Neal B, Chariyalertsak W, Kunanusont C, Phoolcharoen W, Suriyawongpaisal P. Prevalence and Determinants of Overweight and Obesity in Thai Adults: Results of the Second National Health Examination Survey. J Med Asssoc Thai 2004;87(6):685-93 |
| Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m². | |
Adults, 1985
| Survey type: | Measured |
| Age: | 35-54 |
| Sample size: | 3495 |
| References: | Tanphaichitr V, Kulapongse S, Pakpeankitvatana R, et al. Prevalence of obesity and its associated risks in urban Thais. In: Oomura Y, Tarui S, Inoue S, Shimazu T, eds. Progress in obesity research, 1990 London: Libbey, 1991:649-53 |
| Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m². | |
Children, 2016
| Survey type: | Measured |
| Age: | 6-18 |
| Sample size: | 1749 |
| Area covered: | Regional |
| References: | Nonboonyawat T, Pusanasuwannasri W, Chanrat N, Wongthanavimok N, Tubngern D, Panutrakul P, Mungthin M, Nivesvivat T, Hatthachote P, Rangsin R, Piyaraj P. (2019) 'Prevalence and associates of obesity and overweight among school-age children in a rural community of Thailand.' Korean J Pediatr. doi: 10.3345/kjp.2018.06499. |
| Notes: | WHO cut-offs used. |
| Cutoffs: | WHO |
Children, 2015
| Survey type: | Self-reported |
| Age: | 13-17 |
| Sample size: | 5894 |
| Area covered: | National |
| References: | Global School-based Student Health Survey Thailand 2015 Fact Sheet https://www.who.int/ncds/surveillance/gshs/2015-Thailand-GSHS-Fact-Sheet.pdf?ua=1 (last accessed 24.11.20) |
| Cutoffs: | WHO |
Children, 2008
| Survey type: | Self-reported |
| Age: | 13-15 |
| Sample size: | 2767 |
| Area covered: | National |
| References: | Global School-based Student Health Survey Thailand 2008 Fact Sheethttps://www.who.int/ncds/surveillance/gshs/2008_Thailand_fact_sheet.pdf?ua=1 (last accessed 24.11.20) |
| Cutoffs: | WHO |
Children, 2003-2005
| Survey type: | Measured |
| Age: | 3-18 |
| Sample size: | 9287 |
| Area covered: | National |
| References: | Jitnarin N, Kosulwat V, Rojroongwasinkul N et al. Prevalence of overweight and obesity in Thai population: Results of the National Thai Food Consumption Survey. 2011;16:e242-e249 |
| Cutoffs: | IOTF |
Children, 1997
| Survey type: | Measured |
| Age: | 5-15 |
| Sample size: | 1290 |
| Area covered: | Regional |
| References: | Mo-Suwan L, Tongkumchum P, Puetpaiboon A. Determinants of overweight tracking from childhood to adolescence: a 5 y follow-up study of Hat Yai schoolchildren. International Journal of Obesity (2000) 24, 164-1647 |
| Notes: | Urban 85th Centile NHANES |
| Cutoffs: | Other |
Children, 1992
| Survey type: | Measured |
| Age: | 5-16 |
| Sample size: | 2252 |
| Area covered: | Regional |
| References: | Mo-suwan L, Tongkumchum P and Puetpaiboon A. Determinants of overweight tracking from childhood to adolescence: a 5 year follow up study of Hat Yai schoolchildren. IJO 2000;24:1642-1647 |
| Notes: | Hat Yai municipality, southern Thailand Child Cut-Off point: 85th Centile NHANES (see paper for further details) |
| Cutoffs: | Other |
% Adults living with obesity, 1997-2009
Men
| Survey type: | Measured |
| References: | 1997: Aekplakorn W, Chaiyapong Y, Neal B, Chariyalertsak W, Kunanusont C, Phoolcharoen W, Suriyawongpaisal P. Prevalence and Determinants of Overweight and Obesity in Thai Adults: Results of the Second National Health Examination Survey. J Med Asssoc Thai 2004;87(6):685-93 2003: Jitnarin N, Kosulwat V, Rojroongwasinkul N et al. Prevalence of overweight and obesity in Thai population: Results of the National Thai Food Consumption Survey. 2011;16:e242-e249 2004: Aekplakorn W and Mo-Suwan L. (2009). National prevalence of obesity. Prevalence of obesity in Thailand. Obesity Reviews, 10: 589 - 592. 2009: Wichai Aekplakorn, Rungkarn Inthawong, Pattapong Kessomboon, et al., Prevalence and Trends of Obesity and Association with Socioeconomic Status in Thai Adults: National Health Examination Surveys, 1991–2009, Journal of Obesity, vol. 2014, Article ID 410259, 8 pages, 2014. doi:10.1155/2014/410259 |
| Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m². | |
| Different methodologies may have been used to collect this data and so data from different surveys may not be strictly comparable. Please check with original data sources for methodologies used. | |
Women
| Survey type: | Measured |
| References: | 1997: Aekplakorn W, Chaiyapong Y, Neal B, Chariyalertsak W, Kunanusont C, Phoolcharoen W, Suriyawongpaisal P. Prevalence and Determinants of Overweight and Obesity in Thai Adults: Results of the Second National Health Examination Survey. J Med Asssoc Thai 2004;87(6):685-93 2003: Jitnarin N, Kosulwat V, Rojroongwasinkul N et al. Prevalence of overweight and obesity in Thai population: Results of the National Thai Food Consumption Survey. 2011;16:e242-e249 2004: Aekplakorn W and Mo-Suwan L. (2009). National prevalence of obesity. Prevalence of obesity in Thailand. Obesity Reviews, 10: 589 - 592. 2009: Wichai Aekplakorn, Rungkarn Inthawong, Pattapong Kessomboon, et al., Prevalence and Trends of Obesity and Association with Socioeconomic Status in Thai Adults: National Health Examination Surveys, 1991–2009, Journal of Obesity, vol. 2014, Article ID 410259, 8 pages, 2014. doi:10.1155/2014/410259 |
| Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m². | |
| Different methodologies may have been used to collect this data and so data from different surveys may not be strictly comparable. Please check with original data sources for methodologies used. | |
% Adults living with overweight or obesity, 2003-2009
Men
| Survey type: | Measured |
| References: | 2003: Jitnarin N, Kosulwat V, Rojroongwasinkul N et al. Prevalence of overweight and obesity in Thai population: Results of the National Thai Food Consumption Survey. 2011;16:e242-e249 2004: Aekplakorn W and Mo-Suwan L. (2009). National prevalence of obesity. Prevalence of obesity in Thailand. Obesity Reviews, 10: 589 - 592. 2009: Wichai Aekplakorn, Rungkarn Inthawong, Pattapong Kessomboon, et al., Prevalence and Trends of Obesity and Association with Socioeconomic Status in Thai Adults: National Health Examination Surveys, 1991–2009, Journal of Obesity, vol. 2014, Article ID 410259, 8 pages, 2014. doi:10.1155/2014/410259 |
| Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m². | |
| Different methodologies may have been used to collect this data and so data from different surveys may not be strictly comparable. Please check with original data sources for methodologies used. | |
Women
| Survey type: | Measured |
| References: | 2003: Jitnarin N, Kosulwat V, Rojroongwasinkul N et al. Prevalence of overweight and obesity in Thai population: Results of the National Thai Food Consumption Survey. 2011;16:e242-e249 2004: Aekplakorn W and Mo-Suwan L. (2009). National prevalence of obesity. Prevalence of obesity in Thailand. Obesity Reviews, 10: 589 - 592. 2009: Wichai Aekplakorn, Rungkarn Inthawong, Pattapong Kessomboon, et al., Prevalence and Trends of Obesity and Association with Socioeconomic Status in Thai Adults: National Health Examination Surveys, 1991–2009, Journal of Obesity, vol. 2014, Article ID 410259, 8 pages, 2014. doi:10.1155/2014/410259 |
| Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m². | |
| Different methodologies may have been used to collect this data and so data from different surveys may not be strictly comparable. Please check with original data sources for methodologies used. | |
Overweight/obesity by education
Men, 2009
| Survey type: | Measured |
| Age: | 20+ |
| Sample size: | 19,181 |
| Area covered: | National - URBAN |
| References: | Wichai Aekplakorn, Rungkarn Inthawong, Pattapong Kessomboon, et al., Prevalence and Trends of Obesity and Association with Socioeconomic Status in Thai Adults: National Health Examination Surveys, 1991–2009, Journal of Obesity, vol. 2014, Article ID 410259, 8 pages, 2014. doi:10.1155/2014/410259 |
| Notes: | Prevalence of Overweight & Obesity by Education in Urban Areas In this graph, overweight refers to BMI 25–<30, and obesity as BMI ≥30 kg/m2 |
| Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m². | |
Women, 2009
| Survey type: | Measured |
| Age: | 20+ |
| Sample size: | 19,181 |
| Area covered: | National - URBAN |
| References: | Wichai Aekplakorn, Rungkarn Inthawong, Pattapong Kessomboon, et al., Prevalence and Trends of Obesity and Association with Socioeconomic Status in Thai Adults: National Health Examination Surveys, 1991–2009, Journal of Obesity, vol. 2014, Article ID 410259, 8 pages, 2014. doi:10.1155/2014/410259 |
| Notes: | Prevalence of Overweight & Obesity by Education in Urban Areas In this graph, overweight refers to BMI 25–<30, and obesity as BMI ≥30 kg/m2 |
| Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m². | |
Men, 2009
| Survey type: | Measured |
| Age: | 20+ |
| Sample size: | 19,181 |
| Area covered: | National - RURAL |
| References: | Wichai Aekplakorn, Rungkarn Inthawong, Pattapong Kessomboon, et al., Prevalence and Trends of Obesity and Association with Socioeconomic Status in Thai Adults: National Health Examination Surveys, 1991–2009, Journal of Obesity, vol. 2014, Article ID 410259, 8 pages, 2014. doi:10.1155/2014/410259 |
| Notes: | Prevalence of Overweight & Obesity by Education in Rural Areas In this graph, overweight refers to BMI 25–<30, and obesity as BMI ≥30 kg/m2 |
| Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m². | |
Women, 2009
| Survey type: | Measured |
| Age: | 20+ |
| Sample size: | 19,181 |
| Area covered: | National - RURAL |
| References: | Wichai Aekplakorn, Rungkarn Inthawong, Pattapong Kessomboon, et al., Prevalence and Trends of Obesity and Association with Socioeconomic Status in Thai Adults: National Health Examination Surveys, 1991–2009, Journal of Obesity, vol. 2014, Article ID 410259, 8 pages, 2014. doi:10.1155/2014/410259 |
| Notes: | Prevalence of Overweight & Obesity by Education in Rural Areas In this graph, overweight refers to BMI 25–<30, and obesity as BMI ≥30 kg/m2 |
| Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m². | |
Overweight/obesity by age
Adults, 2003-2005
| Survey type: | Measured |
| Sample size: | 7279 |
| Area covered: | National |
| References: | Jitnarin N, Kosulwat V, Rojroongwasinkul N et al. Prevalence of overweight and obesity in Thai population: Results of the National Thai Food Consumption Survey. 2011;16:e242-e249 |
| Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m². | |
Children, 2003-2005
| Survey type: | Measured |
| Sample size: | 9287 |
| Area covered: | National |
| References: | Jitnarin N, Kosulwat V, Rojroongwasinkul N et al. Prevalence of overweight and obesity in Thai population: Results of the National Thai Food Consumption Survey. 2011;16:e242-e249 |
| Cutoffs: | IOTF |
Overweight/obesity by region
Men, 2009
| Survey type: | Measured |
| Age: | 20+ |
| Sample size: | 19,181 |
| Area covered: | National |
| References: | Wichai Aekplakorn, Rungkarn Inthawong, Pattapong Kessomboon, et al., Prevalence and Trends of Obesity and Association with Socioeconomic Status in Thai Adults: National Health Examination Surveys, 1991–2009, Journal of Obesity, vol. 2014, Article ID 410259, 8 pages, 2014. doi:10.1155/2014/410259 |
| Notes: | In this graph, overweight refers to BMI 25–<30, and obesity as BMI ≥30 kg/m2 |
| Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m². | |
Women, 2009
| Survey type: | Measured |
| Age: | 20+ |
| Sample size: | 19,181 |
| Area covered: | National |
| References: | Wichai Aekplakorn, Rungkarn Inthawong, Pattapong Kessomboon, et al., Prevalence and Trends of Obesity and Association with Socioeconomic Status in Thai Adults: National Health Examination Surveys, 1991–2009, Journal of Obesity, vol. 2014, Article ID 410259, 8 pages, 2014. doi:10.1155/2014/410259 |
| Notes: | In this graph, overweight refers to BMI 25–<30, and obesity as BMI ≥30 kg/m2 |
| Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m². | |
Men, 2003-2005
| Survey type: | Measured |
| Age: | 19+ |
| Sample size: | 7279 |
| Area covered: | National |
| References: | Jitnarin N, Kosulwat V, Rojroongwasinkul N et al. Prevalence of overweight and obesity in Thai population: Results of the National Thai Food Consumption Survey. 2011;16:e242-e249 |
| Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m². | |
Women, 2003-2005
| Survey type: | Measured |
| Age: | 19+ |
| Sample size: | 7279 |
| Area covered: | National |
| References: | Jitnarin N, Kosulwat V, Rojroongwasinkul N et al. Prevalence of overweight and obesity in Thai population: Results of the National Thai Food Consumption Survey. 2011;16:e242-e249 |
| Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m². | |
Men, 2003-2005
| Survey type: | Measured |
| Age: | 19+ |
| Sample size: | 7279 |
| Area covered: | National |
| References: | Jitnarin N, Kosulwat V, Rojroongwasinkul N et al. Prevalence of overweight and obesity in Thai population: Results of the National Thai Food Consumption Survey. 2011;16:e242-e249 |
| Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m². | |
Women, 2003-2005
| Survey type: | Measured |
| Age: | 19+ |
| Sample size: | 7279 |
| Area covered: | National |
| References: | Jitnarin N, Kosulwat V, Rojroongwasinkul N et al. Prevalence of overweight and obesity in Thai population: Results of the National Thai Food Consumption Survey. 2011;16:e242-e249 |
| Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m². | |
Boys, 2003-2005
| Survey type: | Measured |
| Age: | 3-18 |
| Sample size: | 9287 |
| Area covered: | National |
| References: | Jitnarin N, Kosulwat V, Rojroongwasinkul N et al. Prevalence of overweight and obesity in Thai population: Results of the National Thai Food Consumption Survey. 2011;16:e242-e249 |
| Cutoffs: | IOTF |
Girls, 2003-2005
| Survey type: | Measured |
| Age: | 3-18 |
| Sample size: | 9287 |
| Area covered: | National |
| References: | Jitnarin N, Kosulwat V, Rojroongwasinkul N et al. Prevalence of overweight and obesity in Thai population: Results of the National Thai Food Consumption Survey. 2011;16:e242-e249 |
| Cutoffs: | IOTF |
Boys, 2003-2005
| Survey type: | Measured |
| Age: | 3-18 |
| Sample size: | 9287 |
| Area covered: | National |
| References: | Jitnarin N, Kosulwat V, Rojroongwasinkul N et al. Prevalence of overweight and obesity in Thai population: Results of the National Thai Food Consumption Survey. 2011;16:e242-e249 |
| Cutoffs: | IOTF |
Girls, 2003-2005
| Survey type: | Measured |
| Age: | 3-18 |
| Sample size: | 9287 |
| Area covered: | National |
| References: | Jitnarin N, Kosulwat V, Rojroongwasinkul N et al. Prevalence of overweight and obesity in Thai population: Results of the National Thai Food Consumption Survey. 2011;16:e242-e249 |
| Cutoffs: | IOTF |
Insufficient physical activity
Adults, 2016
| References: | Guthold R, Stevens GA, Riley LM, Bull FC. Worldwide trends in insufficient physical activity from 2001 to 2016: a pooled analysis of 358 population-based surveys with 1.9 million participants. Lancet 2018 http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/S2214-109X(18)30357-7 |
Men, 2016
| References: | Guthold R, Stevens GA, Riley LM, Bull FC. Worldwide trends in insufficient physical activity from 2001 to 2016: a pooled analysis of 358 population-based surveys with 1.9 million participants. Lancet 2018 http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/S2214-109X(18)30357-7 |
Women, 2016
| References: | Guthold R, Stevens GA, Riley LM, Bull FC. Worldwide trends in insufficient physical activity from 2001 to 2016: a pooled analysis of 358 population-based surveys with 1.9 million participants. Lancet 2018 http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/S2214-109X(18)30357-7 |
Children, 2016
| Survey type: | Self-reported |
| Age: | 11-17 |
| References: | Global Health Observatory data repository, World Health Organisation, https://apps.who.int/gho/data/node.main.A893ADO?lang=en (last accessed 16.03.21) |
| Notes: | % of school going adolescents not meeting WHO recommendations on Physical Activity for Health, i.e. doing less than 60 minutes of moderate- to vigorous-intensity physical activity daily. |
| Definitions: | % Adolescents insufficiently active (age standardised estimate) |
Boys, 2016
| Survey type: | Self-reported |
| Age: | 11-17 |
| References: | Global Health Observatory data repository, World Health Organisation, https://apps.who.int/gho/data/node.main.A893ADO?lang=en (last accessed 16.03.21) |
| Notes: | % of school going adolescents not meeting WHO recommendations on Physical Activity for Health, i.e. doing less than 60 minutes of moderate- to vigorous-intensity physical activity daily. |
| Definitions: | % Adolescents insufficiently active (age standardised estimate) |
Girls, 2016
| Survey type: | Self-reported |
| Age: | 11-17 |
| References: | Global Health Observatory data repository, World Health Organisation, https://apps.who.int/gho/data/node.main.A893ADO?lang=en (last accessed 16.03.21) |
| Notes: | % of school going adolescents not meeting WHO recommendations on Physical Activity for Health, i.e. doing less than 60 minutes of moderate- to vigorous-intensity physical activity daily. |
| Definitions: | % Adolescents insufficiently active (age standardised estimate) |
Children, 2010
| Age: | 11-17 |
| References: | Global Health Observatory data repository, World Health Organisation, http://apps.who.int/gho/data/node.main.A893?lang=en |
| Notes: | % of school going adolescents not meeting WHO recommendations on Physical Activity for Health, i.e. doing less than 60 minutes of moderate- to vigorous-intensity physical activity daily. |
| Definitions: | % Adolescents insufficiently active (age standardised estimate) |
Boys, 2010
| Age: | 11-17 |
| References: | Global Health Observatory data repository, World Health Organisation, http://apps.who.int/gho/data/node.main.A893?lang=en |
| Notes: | % of school going adolescents not meeting WHO recommendations on Physical Activity for Health, i.e. doing less than 60 minutes of moderate- to vigorous-intensity physical activity daily. |
| Definitions: | % Adolescents insufficiently active (age standardised estimate) |
Girls, 2010
| Age: | 11-17 |
| References: | Global Health Observatory data repository, World Health Organisation, http://apps.who.int/gho/data/node.main.A893?lang=en |
| Notes: | % of school going adolescents not meeting WHO recommendations on Physical Activity for Health, i.e. doing less than 60 minutes of moderate- to vigorous-intensity physical activity daily. |
| Definitions: | % Adolescents insufficiently active (age standardised estimate) |
Average daily frequency of carbonated soft drink consumption
Children, 2014-2015
| Survey type: | Measured |
| Age: | 12-17 |
| References: | Beal et al. (2019). Global Patterns of Adolescent Fruit, Vegetable, Carbonated Soft Drink, and Fast-food consumption: A meta-analysis of global school-based student health surveys. Food and Nutrition Bulletin. https://doi.org/10.1177/0379572119848287 sourced from Food Systems Dashboard http://www.foodsystemsdashboard.org/food-system |
Estimated per capita fruit intake
Adults, 2017
| Survey type: | Measured |
| Age: | 25+ |
| References: | Global Burden of Disease, the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation http://ghdx.healthdata.org/ |
| Definitions: | Estimated per-capita fruit intake (g/day) |
Prevalence of less than daily fruit consumption
Children, 2008-2015
| Survey type: | Measured |
| Age: | 12-17 |
| References: | Global School-based Student Health Surveys. Beal et al (2019). Global Patterns of Adolescent Fruit, Vegetable, Carbonated Soft Drink, and Fast-food consumption: A meta-analysis of global school-based student health surveys. Food and Nutrition Bulletin. https://doi.org/10.1177/0379572119848287. Sourced from Food Systems Dashboard http://www.foodsystemsdashboard.org/food-system |
| Definitions: | Prevalence of less-than-daily fruit consumption (% less-than-daily fruit consumption) |
Prevalence of less than daily vegetable consumption
Children, 2008-2015
| Survey type: | Measured |
| Age: | 12-17 |
| References: | Beal et al. (2019). Global Patterns of Adolescent Fruit, Vegetable, Carbonated Soft Drink, and Fast-food consumption: A meta-analysis of global school-based student health surveys. Food and Nutrition Bulletin. https://doi.org/10.1177/0379572119848287 sourced from Food Systems Dashboard http://www.foodsystemsdashboard.org/food-system |
| Definitions: | Prevalence of less-than-daily vegetable consumption (% less-than-daily vegetable consumption) |
Average weekly frequency of fast food consumption
Children, 2014-2015
| Age: | 12-17 |
| References: | Beal et al. (2019). Global Patterns of Adolescent Fruit, Vegetable, Carbonated Soft Drink, and Fast-food consumption: A meta-analysis of global school-based student health surveys. Food and Nutrition Bulletin. https://doi.org/10.1177/0379572119848287 sourced from Food Systems Dashboard http://www.foodsystemsdashboard.org/food-system |
Estimated per-capita processed meat intake
Adults, 2017
| Survey type: | Measured |
| Age: | 25+ |
| References: | Global Burden of Disease, the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation http://ghdx.healthdata.org/ |
| Definitions: | Estimated per-capita processed meat intake (g per day) |
Estimated per capita whole grains intake
Adults, 2017
| Survey type: | Measured |
| Age: | 25+ |
| References: | Global Burden of Disease, the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation http://ghdx.healthdata.org/ |
| Definitions: | Estimated per-capita whole grains intake (g/day) |
Mental health - depression disorders
Adults, 2015
| References: | Prevalence data from Global Burden of Disease study 2015 (http://ghdx.healthdata.org) published in: Depression and Other Common Mental Disorders: Global Health Estimates. Geneva:World Health Organization; 2017. Licence: CC BY-NC-SA 3.0 IGO. |
| Definitions: | % of population with depression disorders |
Mental health - anxiety disorders
Adults, 2015
| References: | Prevalence data from Global Burden of Disease study 2015 (http://ghdx.healthdata.org) published in: Depression and Other Common Mental Disorders: Global Health Estimates. Geneva:World Health Organization; 2017. Licence: CC BY-NC-SA 3.0 IGO. |
| Definitions: | % of population with anxiety disorders |
% Infants exclusively breastfed 0-5 months
Children, 2015-2020
| Area covered: | National |
| References: | Thailand Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey 2019, Survey Findings Report. Bangkok, Thailand: National Statistical Office of Thailand. |
| Notes: | See UNICEF website for further survey information. Available at : https://data.unicef.org/resources/dataset/infant-young-child-feeding/ (last accessed 28.9.21) Citation: United Nations Children’s Fund, Division of Data, Analysis, Planning and Monitoring (2021). Global UNICEF Global Databases: Infant and Young Child Feeding: Exclusive breastfeeding, New York, September 2021. |
| Definitions: | % exclusively breastfed 0-5 months |
Oesophageal cancer
Men, 2018
| Age: | 20+ |
| References: | Global Cancer Observatory, Cancer incidence rates http://gco.iarc.fr/ (last accessed 30th June 2020) |
| Definitions: | Estimated age-standardized incidence rates (World) in 2018, oesophagus, adults ages 20+. ASR (World) per 100,000 |
Women, 2018
| Age: | 20+ |
| References: | Global Cancer Observatory, Cancer incidence rates http://gco.iarc.fr/ (last accessed 30th June 2020) |
| Definitions: | Estimated age-standardized incidence rates (World) in 2018, oesophagus, adults ages 20+. ASR (World) per 100,000 |
Breast cancer
Women, 2018
| Age: | 20+ |
| References: | Global Cancer Observatory, Cancer incidence rates http://gco.iarc.fr/ (last accessed 30th June 2020) |
| Definitions: | Estimated age-standardized incidence rates (World) in 2018, breast, females, ages 20+. ASR (World) per 100,000 |
Colorectal cancer
Men, 2018
| Age: | 20+ |
| References: | Global Cancer Observatory, Cancer incidence rates http://gco.iarc.fr/ (last accessed 30th June 2020) |
| Definitions: | Estimated age-standardized incidence rates (World) in 2018, colorectum, adults, ages 20+. ASR (World) per 100,000 |
Women, 2018
| Age: | 20+ |
| References: | Global Cancer Observatory, Cancer incidence rates http://gco.iarc.fr/ (last accessed 30th June 2020) |
| Definitions: | Estimated age-standardized incidence rates (World) in 2018, colorectum, adults, ages 20+. ASR (World) per 100,000 |
Pancreatic cancer
Men, 2018
| Age: | 20+ |
| References: | Global Cancer Observatory, Cancer incidence rates http://gco.iarc.fr/ (last accessed 30th June 2020) |
| Definitions: | Estimated age-standardized incidence rates (World) in 2018, pancreas, adults, ages 20+. ASR (World) per 100,000 |
Women, 2018
| Age: | 20+ |
| References: | Global Cancer Observatory, Cancer incidence rates http://gco.iarc.fr/ (last accessed 30th June 2020) |
| Definitions: | Estimated age-standardized incidence rates (World) in 2018, pancreas, adults, ages 20+. ASR (World) per 100,000 |
Gallbladder cancer
Men, 2018
| Age: | 20+ |
| References: | Global Cancer Observatory, Cancer incidence rates http://gco.iarc.fr/ (last accessed 30th June 2020) |
| Definitions: | Estimated age-standardized incidence rates (World) in 2018, gallbladder, adults, ages 20+. ASR (World) per 100,000 |
Women, 2018
| Age: | 20+ |
| References: | Global Cancer Observatory, Cancer incidence rates http://gco.iarc.fr/ (last accessed 30th June 2020) |
| Definitions: | Estimated age-standardized incidence rates (World) in 2018, gallbladder, adults, ages 20+. ASR (World) per 100,000 |
Kidney cancer
Men, 2018
| Age: | 20+ |
| References: | Global Cancer Observatory, Cancer incidence rates http://gco.iarc.fr/ (last accessed 30th June 2020) |
| Definitions: | Estimated age-standardized incidence rates (World) in 2018, kidney, adults, ages 20+. ASR (World) per 100,000 |
Women, 2018
| Age: | 20+ |
| References: | Global Cancer Observatory, Cancer incidence rates http://gco.iarc.fr/ (last accessed 30th June 2020) |
| Definitions: | Estimated age-standardized incidence rates (World) in 2018, kidney, adults, ages 20+. ASR (World) per 100,000 |
Cancer of the uterus
Women, 2018
| Age: | 20+ |
| References: | Global Cancer Observatory, Cancer incidence rates http://gco.iarc.fr/ (last accessed 30th June 2020) |
| Definitions: | Estimated age-standardized incidence rates (World) in 2018, cervix uteri, females, ages 20+. ASR (World) per 100,000 |
Raised blood pressure
Adults, 2015
| References: | Global Health Observatory data repository, World Health Organisation, http://apps.who.int/gho/data/node.main.A875?lang=en |
| Definitions: | Age Standardised estimated % Raised blood pressure 2015 (SBP>=140 OR DBP>=90). |
Men, 2015
| References: | Global Health Observatory data repository, World Health Organisation, http://apps.who.int/gho/data/node.main.A875?lang=en |
| Definitions: | Age Standardised estimated % Raised blood pressure 2015 (SBP>=140 OR DBP>=90). |
Women, 2015
| References: | Global Health Observatory data repository, World Health Organisation, http://apps.who.int/gho/data/node.main.A875?lang=en |
| Definitions: | Age Standardised estimated % Raised blood pressure 2015 (SBP>=140 OR DBP>=90). |
Raised cholesterol
Adults, 2008
| References: | Global Health Observatory data repository, World Health Organisation, http://apps.who.int/gho/data/node.main.A885 |
| Definitions: | % Raised total cholesterol (>= 5.0 mmol/L) (age-standardized estimate). |
Men, 2008
| References: | Global Health Observatory data repository, World Health Organisation, http://apps.who.int/gho/data/node.main.A885 |
| Definitions: | % Raised total cholesterol (>= 5.0 mmol/L) (age-standardized estimate). |
Women, 2008
| References: | Global Health Observatory data repository, World Health Organisation, http://apps.who.int/gho/data/node.main.A885 |
| Definitions: | % Raised total cholesterol (>= 5.0 mmol/L) (age-standardized estimate). |
Raised fasting blood glucose
Men, 2014
| References: | Global Health Observatory data repository, World Health Organisation, http://apps.who.int/gho/data/node.main.A869?lang=en |
| Definitions: | Age Standardised % raised fasting blood glucose (>= 7.0 mmol/L or on medication). |
Women, 2014
| References: | Global Health Observatory data repository, World Health Organisation, http://apps.who.int/gho/data/node.main.A869?lang=en |
| Definitions: | Age Standardised % raised fasting blood glucose (>= 7.0 mmol/L or on medication). |
Diabetes prevalence
Adults, 2019
| Age: | 20-79 |
| References: | Reproduced with kind permission International Diabetes Federation. IDF Diabetes Atlas, 9th edn. Brussels,Belgium: 2019. Available at: https://www.diabetesatlas.org |
| Definitions: | Diabetes age-adjusted comparative prevalence (%). |
Adults, 2017
| References: | Reproduced with kind permission of IDF, International Diabetes Federation. IDF Diabetes Atlas, 8th edition. Brussels, Belgium: International Diabetes Federation, 2017. http://www.diabetesatlas.org |
| Definitions: | Diabetes age-adjusted comparative prevalence (%). |
Health systems
Economic classification: Upper Middle Income
Health systems summary
Thailand has a pluralistic health system that involves both public and private providers and financing bodies (although most care is delivered by the public system). By law, all Thai citizens must be a member of a social health protection scheme and so universal health coverage was reached by 2002. There are three health insurance schemes, membership of which is typically dependent on type of employment. The Servant Medical Benefit Scheme covers central government employees and the Social Security Scheme covers private employees. Most people, however, are covered by the Universal Coverage Scheme that covers those that work in the informal sector. The latter scheme is financed by general taxation, does not rely on contributions from members and covers approximately 72% of the population. Over the past two decades, public expenditure on health has increased significantly and out of pocket payments as a percentage of total health spending has fallen to 12.4%. There has also been a reduction in catastrophic health spending and medical impoverishment.
Current challenges include the continued financing of the primarily tax-financed health system. As a large proportion of the population live in poverty and contribute little, there is widespread concern that the status quo is not sustainable.
Indicators
| Where is the country’s government in the journey towards defining ‘Obesity as a disease’? | Defined as disease |
| Where is the country’s healthcare provider in the journey towards defining ‘Obesity as a disease’? | Some progress |
| Is there specialist training available dedicated to the training of health professionals to prevent, diagnose, treat and manage obesity? | Not known |
| Have any taxes or subsidies been put in place to protect/assist/inform the population around obesity? | Yes |
| Are there adequate numbers of trained health professionals in specialties relevant to obesity in urban areas? | Yes |
| Are there adequate numbers of trained health professionals in specialties relevant to obesity in rural areas? | Some progress |
| Are there any obesity-specific recommendations or guidelines published for adults? | No |
| Are there any obesity-specific recommendations or guidelines published for children? | Yes |
| In practice, how is obesity treatment largely funded? | Out of pocket |
Summary of stakeholder feedback
Obesity is high on the government’s agenda in Thailand and is increasingly being prioritised. There has been several healthy lifestyle campaigns and public awareness drives alongside clear policies ambitions from the Ministry of Health. Preventative action on obesity includes both the introduction of a sugar tax and mandatory food labelling.
While it is felt that most healthcare professionals believe obesity to be a disease, this appears not to extend to the insurers as there is limited to no reimbursement for obesity treatment. It appears that only lifestyle and behavioural treatment is covered by public insurance and so most obesity treatment received is paid for out of pocket.
Stakeholders reported that there is a sufficient number of obesity treatment professionals in urban areas, but less so in rural areas. Stakeholders noted, however, that there are no guidelines in place for these professionals to follow. A literature search found 2014 obesity guidelines for children by the Royal College of Paediatricians but it appears that there are not well-versed with the public as the stakeholders were not aware of it.
Based on interviews/survey returns from 3 stakeholders
Last updated: June 2020
