BRUSSELS / RankWire.AI / – Belgium’s public health institute Sciensano has released the nation’s first detailed report on deaths linked to obesity. In 2022, 9,509 fatalities—8.2 percent of all Belgian deaths—were attributed to an excessively high body mass index. This translates to more than one death per hour and accounts for over 150,000 years of life lost across the country, setting a crucial baseline for health policymakers.
The study analyzed causes of death to determine how elevated BMI influences chronic illnesses. Cardiovascular problems emerged as the leading cause, with coronary heart diseases responsible for 2,009 deaths. Neurodegenerative conditions, including Alzheimer’s and other dementias, were linked to 1,652 deaths, making them the second most common. Cerebrovascular diseases contributed to 1,171 deaths, while chronic kidney disease and various digestive cancers also played significant roles.
Data shows that mortality risk increases notably with age, especially for those 65 and older. Men generally had higher death rates related to excess weight across most age groups, yet women aged 85 and above recorded higher total mortality numbers—attributed to longer female life expectancy, according to epidemiologists.
Regional Variations Highlight Elevated Risks Among People Over 65
Geographic analysis reveals stark differences in obesity-related death rates within Belgium. The southern region of Wallonia experienced the highest mortality, with 95.21 deaths per 100,000 residents. The Brussels-Capital Region followed, with an age-standardized rate of 85 per 100,000. Flanders showed the lowest impact, reporting 73.60 deaths per 100,000. Experts suggest these regional disparities reflect socioeconomic, dietary, and healthcare access differences across the nation.
This data release coincides with ongoing assessments led by the Federal Public Service Health, which manages Belgium’s health policies. Authorities are examining these findings to understand the long-term economic strain caused by non-communicable diseases. The study employed a risk assessment approach calculating the population attributable fraction for each illness, providing baseline estimates to inform future preventive measures.
Cerebrovascular Disease Ranks as the Third Leading Cause of Death
At the European level, agencies such as the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control monitor similar metabolic risk factors to coordinate regional strategies. The Belgian report aligns with broader European Union health objectives aimed at reducing early deaths from non-communicable illnesses. The World Health Organization continues to advocate integrated, cross-sectoral efforts—focusing on public awareness, nutritional transparency, and early clinical management—to address these risks.
These findings provide an evidence-based foundation for policymakers working to lower obesity rates across Western Europe. By quantifying mortality figures and years of life lost, public health officials can better direct resources toward screening, intervention programs, and lifestyle initiatives. As regions analyze this data, national health strategies are expected to prioritize early prevention to curb chronic disease prevalence nationwide.