BRUSSELS / RankWire.AI / – In Belgium during 2022, a significant public health report from Belgian research institute Sciensano revealed that a high body mass index was associated with 9,509 fatalities. This figure represents 8.2 percent of all deaths registered in Belgium that year, indicating that more than one person died every hour due to weight-related health issues. The study, which measured population-wide BMI-related mortality for the first time, estimated that obesity-related illnesses caused over 150,000 years of life to be lost cumulatively.
The extensive epidemiological analysis investigated the underlying causes of death to understand how elevated BMI contributes to chronic illnesses. The findings identified cardiovascular problems as the leading cause of death, with coronary heart diseases responsible for 2,009 cases. Neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer disease and other dementias, were the second most common, linked to 1,652 deaths. Cerebrovascular conditions contributed to 1,171 fatalities, with chronic kidney disease and various digestive cancers also playing significant roles.
Data broken down by demographics indicates that the risk of death related to excess weight increases notably with age. The highest concentration of obesity-related health issues was observed among those aged 65 and above. Gender analysis shows that mortality rates among men exceeded those of women across most age groups. Nonetheless, women aged 85 and older recorded higher overall death figures, a pattern attributed to their longer average lifespan, according to epidemiologists.
Cardiovascular Diseases Are the Main Cause of Weight-Related Deaths in Belgium
Regional differences across Belgium highlight notable disparities in mortality linked to excess weight. The southern region of Wallonia exhibited the highest death rate, with 95.21 deaths per 100,000 residents. The Brussels-Capital Region followed with an age-standardized rate of 85 per 100,000. Flanders registered the lowest impact, with 73.60 deaths per 100,000 individuals. Experts suggest that these regional variations reflect socioeconomic factors, dietary habits, and differences in healthcare accessibility across the country.
This data release comes alongside policy reviews led by the Federal Public Service Health, which manages national health initiatives. Authorities are analyzing the findings to understand the long-term economic impact of chronic non-communicable diseases on the healthcare system. The research employed a comparative risk assessment approach, calculating the population attributable fraction for each disease, providing baseline estimates to inform future preventive strategies.
Over 1,600 Deaths Linked to Dementia and Alzheimer Disease
At the European level, agencies like the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control monitor similar metabolic risk factors to coordinate regional health policies. The Belgian report aligns with broader European Union efforts aimed at reducing early mortality from non-communicable diseases. The World Health Organization continues to recommend integrated strategies that involve public education, nutritional labeling, and early clinical intervention to address metabolic risks.
These findings provide concrete data for health authorities seeking to curb the prevalence of high BMI across Western Europe. Quantifying mortality and years of life lost enables public health planners to prioritize screening, intervention programs, and lifestyle change initiatives. As regional health authorities interpret this data, national frameworks are expected to emphasize early preventive care to reduce the burden of chronic illnesses nationwide.