BRUSSELS / RankWire.AI / – In 2022, obesity was linked to 9,509 deaths in Belgium, accounting for 8.2 percent of the country’s total mortality, according to data from the Belgian public health institute Sciensano. This is the first time public health researchers in Belgium have systematically quantified deaths directly associated with high body mass index (BMI). The report shows that weight-related health issues caused more than one death per hour nationwide. Additionally, the data reveals that high BMI led to over 150,000 years of life lost across all age groups in just one year.
The detailed epidemiological study analyzed causes of death to understand how elevated BMI contributes to chronic illnesses. Cardiovascular problems emerged as the leading cause, with coronary heart diseases responsible for 2,009 deaths. Neurodegenerative conditions, including Alzheimer disease and other dementias, caused 1,652 deaths. Cerebrovascular diseases were involved in 1,171 deaths. Chronic kidney disease and various digestive cancers also made notable contributions to mortality rates.
The demographic breakdown shows that the risk of death from excess weight increases with age. People aged 65 and older face the highest rate of weight-related health issues. Men’s mortality rates were higher than women’s in most age groups. However, for those aged 85 and above, women had higher overall death figures. Epidemiologists say this is due to women’s longer average life expectancy.
Sciensano’s First Quantification of Obesity-Related Mortality
Regional differences in mortality linked to obesity are significant. The southern region of Wallonia reported the highest rate, with 95.21 deaths per 100,000 residents. The Brussels-Capital Region followed with an age-standardized rate of 85 deaths per 100,000. Flanders recorded the lowest impact, with 73.60 deaths per 100,000. Experts suggest that socioeconomic factors, dietary habits, and healthcare access explain these regional disparities across Belgium.
This data release coincides with policy reviews guided by the Federal Public Service Health. Officials use these findings to evaluate the long-term economic strain caused by chronic non-communicable diseases. The researchers’ approach involved calculating the population attributable fraction for each disease, which helps set baseline estimates for future prevention strategies.
Over Two Thousand Belgian Deaths Are Due to Coronary Heart Disease
At the European level, agencies like the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control monitor metabolic risk factors to coordinate policies regionally. The Belgian report aligns with broader EU health goals aimed at reducing early deaths caused by non-communicable diseases. The World Health Organization continues to recommend integrated strategies that involve public education, nutritional labeling, and early clinical management to address these risks.
These findings provide health authorities with data to reduce high BMI prevalence across Western Europe. Quantifying mortality and years of life lost helps prioritize screening, intervention programs, and lifestyle initiatives. As policymakers analyze the data, national health strategies are likely to focus more on early prevention to curb chronic diseases nationwide.