High BMI linked to thousands of deaths in Belgium, experts call for stronger obesity prevention
Sciensano epidemiologist Kim Fernandez reports that elevated body-mass index contributed to 9,509 deaths in Belgium in 2022, highlighting a growing public-health concern.
Kim Fernandez, an epidemiologist at Sciensano, examined Belgium's 2022 health statistics and found that overweight and obesity remain widespread, affecting 49% of residents older than three and 18% classified as obese. Among children, roughly 20% are either overweight or obese. The study linked high BMI to 9,509 deaths that year, noting that the health consequences can extend well beyond the period of excess weight.
Fernandez described the figures as alarming and called for more effective public-health strategies to curb obesity. The findings emphasize the substantial burden on quality of life and chronic disease rates in the country.
Why it matters
Obesity-related deaths highlight a major health challenge that requires urgent public-policy action.
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