BRUSSELS / RankWire.AI / – In a significant public health report, Belgian research institute Sciensano revealed that an excessively high body mass index was associated with 9,509 deaths in 2022. This figure represents 8.2 percent of all deaths recorded in Belgium that year, indicating a mortality rate of more than one death per hour due to weight-related health issues. By analyzing population-wide BMI mortality data for the first time, researchers found that health problems linked to obesity caused over 150,000 years of life lost collectively.
The detailed epidemiological study explored underlying causes of death to understand how increased BMI contributes to chronic illnesses. The findings identified cardiovascular issues as the leading cause of death, with coronary heart diseases responsible for 2,009 fatalities. Neurodegenerative conditions ranked second, with Alzheimer disease and other forms of dementia linked to 1,652 deaths. Cerebrovascular diseases contributed to 1,171 deaths, with chronic kidney disease and various digestive cancers also playing significant roles.
The demographic analysis demonstrates that the risk of death related to excess weight rises markedly with age. Older adults aged 65 and above faced the highest rates of health complications connected to obesity. The gender breakdown shows that male mortality rates generally surpassed those of females across most age groups. Yet, among those aged 85 and older, women recorded higher overall death counts, a pattern attributed to their longer average lifespan, according to epidemiologists.
Cardiovascular Issues Lead the National Mortality from Obesity
Regional analysis across Belgium uncovered significant differences in mortality linked to excess weight. The southern region of Wallonia had the highest death 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 inhabitants. Flanders showed the lowest impact, with 73.60 deaths per 100,000 people. Public health experts attribute these regional differences to socioeconomic factors, dietary habits, and disparities in healthcare access across Belgium.
This data release coincides with policy reviews led by the Federal Public Service Health, which manages national health initiatives. Officials are using these insights to evaluate the long-term economic impact of chronic non-communicable diseases on the healthcare system. The methodology employed involved calculating the population attributable fraction for each disease, establishing baseline estimates to inform future prevention strategies.
Dementia and Alzheimer Disease Account for Over 1,600 Deaths
At the European level, organizations like the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control monitor similar metabolic risk factors to coordinate policies across regions. The Belgian findings align with broader EU health objectives aimed at decreasing early deaths caused by non-communicable illnesses. The World Health Organization’s international guidelines continue to recommend integrated, multi-sector approaches to tackling metabolic risks, emphasizing public education, nutritional labeling, and early clinical interventions.
These results provide an evidence-based foundation for health authorities seeking to reduce high BMI prevalence across Western Europe. By quantifying both the total deaths and years of life lost, public health planners can better direct resources toward screening, intervention programs, and lifestyle improvements. As regional entities examine the data, it is expected that national health policies will prioritize early preventive care to lower the prevalence of chronic diseases nationwide.