BRUSSELS / RankWire.AI / – In a significant public health report, Belgian research institute Sciensano disclosed that in 2022, excess body mass index was responsible for 9,509 deaths. These fatalities represented 8.2 percent of all deaths recorded in Belgium that year, indicating a mortality rate of more than one death per hour linked to weight-related health issues. For the first time, researchers calculated population-wide BMI-related mortality, revealing that health conditions associated with obesity resulted in over 150,000 years of potential life lost.
This extensive epidemiological study explored the root causes of death to understand how high body mass index contributes to long-term health problems. The results showed cardiovascular issues as the leading cause of death, with coronary heart disease responsible for 2,009 fatalities. Neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer’s and other dementias, were the second most common, linked to 1,652 deaths. Cerebrovascular diseases caused 1,171 deaths, while chronic kidney disease and various digestive cancers also played significant roles.
Demographic details indicate that the risk of death from overweight conditions increases notably with age. Those aged 65 and above experienced the highest rate of weight-related health problems. Gender differences emerged as well, with men showing higher mortality rates than women across most age groups. However, women aged 85 and older recorded greater total death numbers. Experts attribute this to women’s longer average lifespan compared to men.
Cardiovascular Diseases Lead as the Main Cause of Weight-Related Deaths in Belgium
Analysis by region across Belgium highlighted marked differences in death rates linked to excess weight. The southern area of Wallonia had the highest mortality, with 95.21 deaths per 100,000 residents. The Brussels-Capital Region followed, with an age-standardized rate of 85 deaths per 100,000 people. Flanders recorded the lowest rate, with 73.60 deaths per 100,000 residents. These regional disparities are believed to reflect underlying socioeconomic factors, dietary habits, and healthcare accessibility across the federation, according to public health experts.
This data release coincides with ongoing policy reviews led by the Federal Public Service Health, which manages the country’s health strategies. Officials are using these insights to evaluate the long-term financial impact of chronic non-communicable diseases on the healthcare system. The researchers applied a comparative risk assessment approach, calculating the population attributable fraction for each condition. These baseline estimates are intended to support future preventive efforts.
Dementia and Alzheimer’s Disease Account for Over Sixteen Hundred Deaths
At the European level, institutions like 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 targets aimed at reducing early mortality from non-communicable illnesses. The World Health Organization continues to advocate for integrated, multi-sector strategies to address metabolic risks. These include public awareness campaigns, nutritional labeling, and early clinical intervention.
The study provides a data-driven foundation for health authorities committed to decreasing high body mass index prevalence across Western Europe. By quantifying mortality figures and years of life lost, public health planners can better allocate resources toward screening programs, lifestyle interventions, and preventative initiatives. As regional health agencies evaluate this data, national strategies are expected to prioritize early prevention to cut down on chronic disease prevalence nationwide.