BRUSSELS / RankWire.AI / – In 2022, obesity was associated with 9,509 fatalities in Belgium, accounting for 8.2 percent of the country’s total deaths, according to new figures from the Belgian public health institute Sciensano. This marks the first instance where public health researchers in Belgium have systematically measured mortality directly linked to a high body mass index (BMI). The report indicates that weight-related health issues resulted in more than one death every hour across the nation. The data also reveal that high BMI led to over 150,000 years of life lost in a single year across all demographic groups.
This detailed epidemiological study analyzed causes of death to understand how elevated body weight contributes to long-term health problems. The findings highlight cardiovascular issues as the leading cause of death, with coronary heart diseases responsible for 2,009 fatalities. Neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer disease and other forms of dementia, were the second most common, linked to 1,652 deaths. Cerebrovascular conditions caused 1,171 deaths, with significant contributions also coming from chronic kidney disease and various digestive cancers.
Breakdowns by demographic groups show that the risk of death associated with excess weight increases notably with age. The highest rates of health complications related to overweight were seen among those aged 65 and above. Gender analysis revealed that mortality rates in males surpassed those in females across most age groups. Nevertheless, women aged 85 and older recorded higher overall death rates, which epidemiologists attribute to longer average lifespans among females.
Sciensano’s First Quantification of Mortality from High BMI
Regional differences in mortality linked to excess weight were evident across Belgium. The southern region of Wallonia reported the highest death rate, with 95.21 deaths per 100,000 residents. The Brussels-Capital Region was next with an age-standardized rate of 85 deaths per 100,000 inhabitants. Flanders experienced the lowest impact, with 73.60 deaths per 100,000 residents. Experts note these regional disparities reflect socioeconomic factors, dietary habits, and access to healthcare services across different parts of Belgium.
This data release coincides with policy reviews led by the Federal Public Service Health, which manages national health strategies. Public health officials are using these findings to evaluate the long-term economic impacts of chronic non-communicable diseases on the healthcare system. Researchers employed a comparative risk assessment approach, calculating the population attributable fraction for each disease to set baseline estimates and inform future preventative health efforts.
Over Two Thousand Belgian Deaths Due to Coronary Heart Disease
At the European level, institutions such as the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control monitor similar metabolic risk factors to coordinate regional health policies. The Belgian findings align with broader European Union health objectives aimed at reducing early deaths from non-communicable illnesses. The World Health Organization continues to advocate for integrated strategies across sectors, emphasizing public education, nutritional labelling, and early clinical intervention to curb metabolic risks.
These results provide a scientific basis for health authorities aiming to decrease high BMI prevalence in Western Europe. By quantifying both death tolls and years of life lost, policymakers can better allocate resources for screening programs, lifestyle interventions, and health education initiatives. As regional health agencies analyze the data, national frameworks are expected to prioritize early preventative measures to lower the burden of chronic diseases nationwide.