Spatial-temporal evolution of overweight and obesity among Chinese adolescents from 2016 to 2020

This study examines the spatial-temporal evolution of overweight and obesity among Chinese adolescents aged 14–17. Data from five national surveys conducted between 2016 and 2020 were analyzed to determine distribution patterns and trends. Results showed that overweight and obesity exhibit spatial clustering, with greater severity in the north and less severity in the south. The issue has spread from the northeast to the southwest of Mainland China. Using a local autocorrelation model, the regions were divided into a northern disease cold spot area (Inner Mongolia) and a southern disease hot spot area (Guangxi). Over the past five years, overweight rates among Chinese adolescents have not been effectively curbed, but obesity has shown some success in control and reversal until 2019. Future efforts should focus on the spatial-temporal pattern of disease spread, targeting hotspot areas and abnormal values for regional synergy and precise prevention and control. [Display omitted] •Analyzed adolescent overweight/obesity rates’ spatial-temporal evolution at macro scale•Geographic information influences overweight/obesity spread among adolescents•Identified priority areas and interventions for preventing adolescent overweight/obesity•Results inform cross-sector collaborations in adolescent obesity research Health sciences; Medicine; Sports medicine