BRUSSELS / RankWire.AI / – In 2022, obesity contributed to 9,509 deaths in Belgium, making up 8.2 percent of the country’s total mortality, according to recent data from the Belgian public health institute Sciensano. This marks the first comprehensive effort by Belgian public health researchers to systematically quantify deaths directly attributable to a high body mass index (BMI). The report indicates that weight-related health issues caused more than one death every hour across the nation. Additionally, the data reveals that excess weight led to over 150,000 years of life lost across all age groups within a single year.
The detailed epidemiological study examined underlying causes of death to understand how elevated BMI influences chronic illnesses. The research identified cardiovascular problems as the leading cause of death, with coronary heart diseases responsible for 2,009 fatalities. Neurodegenerative conditions, such as Alzheimer disease and other dementias, ranked second, accounting for 1,652 deaths. Cerebrovascular diseases contributed to 1,171 deaths, with chronic kidney disease and various digestive cancers also significantly involved.
Analysis of demographic data shows that the risks linked to higher weight increase notably with age. The highest incidence of weight-related health issues appears among those aged 65 and above. Gender-specific results indicate that male mortality rates tend to be higher than female rates across most age groups. Nonetheless, among those aged 85 and older, women’s total mortality figures are higher, a pattern attributed to their longer average lifespan, according to epidemiologists.
Sciensano Measures Mortality from High Body Mass Index for the First Time
Regional analysis across Belgium highlights notable disparities in death rates linked to obesity. The southern region of Wallonia shows the highest mortality, with 95.21 deaths per 100,000 residents. The Brussels-Capital Region follows with an age-standardized rate of 85 deaths per 100,000 residents. Flanders has the lowest, recording 73.60 deaths per 100,000 inhabitants. Experts suggest that these regional differences reflect socioeconomic factors, dietary habits, and healthcare access variations across Belgium’s federation.
This data release coincides with policy evaluations led by the Federal Public Service Health, which manages the nation’s health strategies. Officials are using the findings to gauge the long-term economic impact on healthcare systems caused by chronic non-communicable diseases. Researchers applied a comparative risk assessment method to calculate the population attributable fraction for each illness, establishing baseline estimates to inform future prevention efforts.
Coronary Heart Disease Leads to Over Two Thousand Belgian Deaths
On the European level, organizations like the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control monitor similar metabolic risk factors to align regional policies. The Belgian report aligns with broader EU health monitoring initiatives aimed at reducing early deaths from non-communicable diseases. The World Health Organization continues to recommend integrated, multi-sector strategies to combat metabolic risks, emphasizing public education, nutritional labeling, and early clinical intervention.
These findings offer a solid empirical foundation for policymakers aiming to lower high BMI rates across Western Europe. By quantifying death counts and years of life lost, health authorities can better direct resources toward screening, intervention programs, and lifestyle initiatives. As regional and national agencies analyze the data, a focus on preventative care is expected to become a cornerstone of efforts to reduce the prevalence of chronic illnesses nationwide.