But in those days, I think it was in reverse; the wealthy are the ones that are usually overweight/obese

Yep. Now they are the ones who work the most hours and run the most marathons.

It would appear that in first world countries, intelligence and education are the bigger determining factor, while in third world countries, it is the actual available resources.

Yes. There is a division depending on "type of country" but even that seems to be changing in many places. THe middle class is getting fatter around the middle.

ith the recent pandemic, we've seen how big pharma companies have skyrocketed their earnings. G

And, they make money from the ill every year, pandemic or not. For instance, in the US 280,000 people die directly every year from obesity related illness. Then, how many are hanging on, medicated?