Obesity in Belgium

Obesity In Belgium

Obesity is becoming a significant health problem in Belgium. Almost one out of every two people is heavier than is healthy, and about one in five adults is classed as obese. These numbers come from a national health study by Sciensano in 2022–2023, where people’s height and weight were measured. This makes the results more accurate than older surveys where people reported their numbers.

Being overweight or obese can lead to serious health problems like heart disease, diabetes, joint pain, and certain cancers. It can also make everyday life harder and limit what people can do. On top of that, it costs Belgium a lot of money in healthcare and lost work. Some groups—like older adults and people with less education—are disproportionately affected.

In this blog, we will look at the latest facts and figures about obesity in Belgium, explore who is most at risk and why, and talk about what can be done to turn the trend around.

Belgium at a glance: The latest numbers

To see how big the problem is, it’s best to look at the newest health survey results. The Food Consumption Survey 2022–2023 measured people’s height and weight, so the numbers are very accurate.

Here’s what they found:

What this means:

• Nearly half of Belgian adults weigh more than is healthy.
  
  
• Older adults are most affected, with about 7 in 10 over 65 being overweight or obese.
  
  
• Men are slightly more likely to have obesity than women.
  
  
• Belgium is close to the European average, but the numbers have been going up over time.
  
  

Trendlines & projections: Is Belgium still gaining?

Obesity in Belgium has been rising for many years. Back in the late 1990s, far fewer people were obese than today. The numbers have been going up slowly but steadily.

Here’s how it has changed:

• In 1997, about 1 in 10 adults were obese (based on people’s reports).
  
  
• By 2018, this had grown to about 1 in 6 adults.
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• In 2022–2023, measured results showed about 18% of adults were obese, and 49% were overweight or obese combined (Sciensano).
  
  

Experts warn that if we don’t take action, these numbers will continue to rise. Reports from the OECD say that by 2030, even more people in Belgium could be obese. This would mean more people getting illnesses like heart disease and diabetes, and more costs for healthcare.
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Why this matters: If we want the trend to change, schools, workplaces, communities, and the government need to work together now.

Who is affected most? Regions, age, and education

Not everyone in Belgium is affected by obesity in the same way. Where you live, how old you are, and your level of education can make a big difference.

By region

Some areas have higher rates of obesity than others. In 2018, a national health survey found that Wallonia had the highest share of adults with obesity, while Brussels had the lowest.

By age

Obesity becomes more common as people get older. In 2022–2023, about 7 in 10 people aged 65 or older were overweight or obese. The risk goes up steadily with age until the early 70s, then drops a little in the very oldest age groups.

By education

People with less education are about twice as likely to have obesity as those with more education. This can be linked to factors such as income, job type, food choices, and the ease of exercise where they live.

Why this matters: These differences show that one solution won’t work for everyone—plans to reduce obesity need to fit the needs of different regions and groups.

What’s driving Belgium’s numbers?

There are many reasons why more people in Belgium are becoming overweight or obese. It’s not just about what you eat—it’s also about the world around you.

Food around us

Unhealthy food is often cheaper and easier to get than healthy food. Fast food, sugary snacks, and sweet drinks are advertised everywhere—on TV, online, and in shops. A report by BIA-Obesity Belgium says there is still a lot more that can be done to make healthy food more accessible.

Eating habits

Many people eat too much ultra-processed food. This is food made in factories that often contains high levels of sugar, salt, or fat. Examples are crisps, biscuits, fizzy drinks, and ready meals. The World Obesity Observatory links these foods to a higher risk of obesity.

Physical activity

Not moving enough is another big reason. In Belgium, women are generally less active than men. Busy jobs, long journeys to work, and fewer safe outdoor spaces can make it harder to be active every day.

Social factors

Money, education, and where you live also matter. People with less money might find it harder to buy healthy food or join sports clubs. Some areas also have fewer safe places to walk or cycle.

The big picture: Obesity is not just about personal choices. The places we live in, how much money we have, and the food that is easy to buy all shape our health.

The costs: healthcare, work, and society

Obesity affects people’s health, but it also costs Belgium a lot of money and has an impact on everyday life.

Healthcare costs

People with obesity are more likely to get illnesses such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and some cancers. Treating these illnesses is expensive. One study found that overweight and obesity together cost Belgium over €1 billion each year in healthcare and lost work time (International Journal of Obesity).

Work and jobs

Obesity can make it harder for people to do their jobs, especially if it causes pain or other health problems. This can mean more sick days and less work getting done.

Everyday life

Obesity can lead to joint pain, fatigue, and reduced energy. It can also affect mental health if people are teased, bullied, or maltreated because of their weight.

Why this matters: Preventing obesity can save money, keep people healthier, and improve quality of life for everyone.

Methodology for Analysing Obesity in Belgium

Obesity and overweight are serious public health concerns projected to continue increasing in Belgium if no effective interventions are implemented. Statistical analyses were performed using datasets from the Belgian Health Interview Survey (BHIS). In doing so, six national health surveys were carried out in 1997, 2001, 2004, 2008, 2013, and 2018. The study aimed to collect data on lifestyle and chronic diseases for every 10,000 individuals in each round of surveys. The current research examines independent variables such as age, sex, education level, migration background, urbanization level, income level, and height and weight. In addition, income, education, and urbanization levels were examined to gain further insight into socioeconomic variables.

In doing so, researchers determined varying obesity and overweight prevalence levels in different demographics. Next, the association between these independent variables and the prevalence of obesity and overweight adults was examined using age-period cohorts (APC). The results of this study were then used to project the prevalence rates of obesity and overweight in adults aged 18 years and older by 2030.

Results & Projections of Obesity in Belgium

The study found that education levels had increased from 29% in 1997 to 41%. On the other hand, urbanisation levels remained stable until 2018, when they reached 47%. Alternatively, rural and suburban areas saw a 15% increase and a 13% increase, respectively. In terms of the income distribution, studies indicated that those with high incomes experienced increases while lower-income groups saw decreases over the years; further, the number of non-EU immigrants doubled from approximately 5% in 1997 to 11% in 2018. The study also revealed that the prevalence of overweight and obese people is higher in middle-aged males than in females. Moreover, it increased over time for both men and women - but not to the same extent (men had a more substantial increase). There were also apparent increases among older generations born before 1915; however, these rates have stabilised.

The future projections for obesity and overweight levels in Belgium are dismal, with a high likelihood of increased rates by 2030. This is ostensible in men, who are projected to have an increase in obesity and overweight projection rates equal to 43.3%. The numbers are even higher for women, with the prospect of reaching increased overweight and obesity levels of 57.6% and 56%, respectively. Overall, the projected increase in probability equals an 84.1% likelihood of higher overweight and obesity rates in Belgium by 2030.

What Do These Statistics About Obesity in Belgium Mean? 

Belgium is currently facing a critical public health crisis due to an increase in the prevalence of overweight and obesity. The results of this study indicate that the current trend will continue if no effective interventions are implemented. Further, the researcher's projections show that the WHO goal to eliminate obesity by 2025 is unlikely to be achieved, especially not in Belgium. Therefore, there is an urgent necessity for policymakers to implement effective prevention policies and other strategies for people who are at risk of developing weight gain and obesity. Within the next ten years, Belgium could look very different in terms of health. This is because rising obesity rates accompany higher rates of comorbidities. This includes health risks such as diabetes, heart disease, stroke, and other life-threatening ailments that can broadly impact population health.

Policy & practice: what Belgium is doing (and not doing yet)

Belgium has started taking action on obesity, but there is still a lot more it could do.

Collecting information

Belgium runs health surveys like the Food Consumption Survey and the Health Interview Survey. These surveys show how many people are overweight or obese and which groups are most at risk.

In healthcare

Doctors follow European advice on how to treat obesity. They focus on being respectful and not blaming the patient. Treatment might include healthy eating plans, exercise, medicines, or surgery if needed.

Stopping unfair treatment

Belgium has laws that protect people with obesity from being maltreated. This helps make sure they have equal opportunities in work, school, and healthcare.

Food and drinks

A report by BIA-Obesity Belgium says Belgium could do more to make healthy food cheaper and easier to buy, and to reduce junk food advertising, especially those aimed at children.

The gap: Belgium has some good ideas and rules, but it needs more decisive action—like better food rules, safer places to walk and cycle, and more healthy choices in schools.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Belgium’s obesity rate higher than the EU average? 

Belgium’s obesity rate is close to the EU average, with around 18% of adults having obesity and 49% being overweight or obese combined. This means Belgium sits in the middle compared to other European countries, but the trend has been rising steadily over time, raising concerns among public health experts.

What are the leading causes of obesity in Belgium? 

The leading causes of obesity in Belgium include eating too many ultra-processed foods, drinking sugary drinks, not getting enough physical activity, and living in environments where unhealthy food is easy to find and cheap. Social factors like income and education also play a significant role in shaping obesity trends.

How many children in Belgium are overweight? 

Childhood obesity in Belgium has increased over the years, with almost 19% of children and teenagers overweight in recent surveys. This rise in childhood obesity is worrying because it often leads to health problems later in life and can be harder to treat as children grow into adults.

Does obesity affect some regions of Belgium more than others? 

Yes, obesity rates in Belgium vary by region, with Wallonia having the highest levels, followed by Flanders, and Brussels having the lowest. These regional differences are linked to lifestyle, economic factors, and access to healthy food and safe spaces for exercise.

What health problems are linked to obesity in Belgium? 

Obesity in Belgium is linked to serious health problems like heart disease, type 2 diabetes, certain cancers, joint pain, and breathing issues. It also increases the risk of mental health challenges, such as depression and anxiety, especially when combined with social stigma.

How much does obesity cost Belgium each year? 

Obesity and overweight together cost Belgium more than €1 billion each year in healthcare expenses and lost productivity. These costs come from treating obesity-related illnesses and the impact on work performance and sick leave.

What is Belgium doing to reduce obesity?

Belgium collects national health data, supports healthcare professionals with treatment guidelines, and has laws to protect against discrimination. However, experts say more could be done, like reducing junk food advertising, making healthy food more affordable, and improving spaces for physical activity.

Are there obesity prevention programmes in Belgian schools? 

Yes, some schools in Belgium run programmes that promote healthy eating and daily exercise, such as offering more nutritious school meals and organising sports activities. Still, the reach of these school obesity prevention programmes varies, and more consistent action could make a bigger difference.

How Can Weight Loss Coach Help with Obesity in Belgium?

Obesity is a global epidemic, and it’s time to do something about it. That’s why Weight Loss Coach provides valuable resources and support to those who need it most. We are dedicated to helping people in Belgium lose weight, improve their health, and feel better about themselves. We understand the importance of having a healthy and happy population, so we are dedicated to fighting obesity in Belgium. Our team of physicians can create a weight loss plan specific to each individual’s body type and genetics. By working with weight loss coach, individuals in Belgium can quickly achieve their dream lifestyle.