understanding the obesity epidemic in canada: rates and impacts

unveiling a hidden public health crisis, the obesity epidemic is silently racking up staggering numbers within canada’s borders. if you think it’s just about a few extra inches around the waist, think again. more than just a personal health issue, obesity is shaping the future landscape of canada’s population in ways that are more insidious, consequential and serious than your common flu.

according to recent statistics, in 2018, 26.8 per cent of canadians aged 18 and older were classified as obese, equivalent to roughly 7.3 million adults. another 9.9 million adults (36.3 per cent) were classified as overweight, bringing the total population with increased health risks due to excess weight to 63.1 per cent .

the proportion of adults who were overweight or obese was higher among males (69.4 per cent) than among females (56.7 per cent) . however, there was no difference between the sexes for those aged 18 and 19.

obesity is a significant risk factor for a multitude of more serious health issues, including heart disease, diabetes, and certain types of cancer. the prevalence of type 2 diabetes was higher among canadians who were obese (13.4 per cent) compared to those with a normal weight (2.9 per cent), and adults who were obese were also more likely to be diagnosed with high blood pressure ( 29.5 per cent ) and heart disease ( 6.0 per cent ).

canada’s obesity rate snapshot

according to statistics, as of 2023, canada has an obesity rate of 31.3 per cent, placing it 12th out of 97 countries. this high prevalence of obesity is a cause for concern among health professionals and policymakers alike.

unfortunately, the consequences of the obesity epidemic extend far beyond aesthetic concerns. obesity is closely linked to numerous negative health conditions , including hypertension, diabetes, stroke, heart disease, and even certain types of cancer. these chronic diseases not only reduce overall quality of life but also place a tremendous burden on healthcare systems.

comparing canadian obesity to global rates

• kuwait: 39.7 per cent
• united states: 38.5 per cent
• australia: 30.9 per cent
• mexico: 30.6 per cent
• united kingdom: 29.9 per cent
• japan: 4.9 per cent

for instance, kuwait has the highest obesity rate of 39.7 per cent , which showcases how societal factors can contribute to the prevalence of obesity. on the other end of the spectrum, japan’s low obesity rate of only 4.9 per cent demonstrates how cultural norms and dietary habits can influence population health.

behind canada’s obesity surge

obesity rates have been steadily rising in canada over the past few decades, presenting a significant public health concern. understanding the factors contributing to this surge is crucial in developing effective strategies to combat obesity.

socioeconomic factors

economic disparities , limited access to healthy food options, and lower education levels are all socioeconomic factors that can contribute to increased rates of obesity. in many cases, individuals with lower incomes face challenges in accessing nutritious foods due to their higher costs. this can lead to greater reliance on more affordable but less healthy food options, which tend to be high in calories and low in nutritional value.

lifestyle changes

food options

the availability and accessibility of unhealthy food options are contributing factors to the obesity surge in canada. highly processed and calorie-dense foods are easily accessible and often more affordable than healthier alternatives. fast-food restaurants and convenience stores are ubiquitous, making it convenient for individuals to opt for quick and unhealthy meals on the go. these environments create an obesogenic society where unhealthy food choices become the norm.

social and environmental factors

societal norms and cultural influences play a significant role in shaping eating habits and lifestyle patterns. canadian society has undergone notable changes over the years that affect our relationship with food, such as increased reliance on processed foods, larger portion sizes, and high-calorie restaurant meals. additionally, busy lifestyles often lead to prioritizing convenience over health when it comes to meal choices.

health consequences of obesity in canada

moreover, marginalized and equity-seeking populations experience even higher rates of obesity , exacerbating health disparities within these communities. they face additional barriers in accessing healthcare services and resources that can help manage their weight and improve overall health outcomes.

diagnosis and treatment of obesity in canada

• according to statistics released by the canadian community health survey in 2018, 26.8 per cent of canadians aged 18 and older were classified as obese, equating to roughly 7.3 million adults.
• the same survey found that among adults, overweight or obesity levels were higher for males (69.4 per cent) than females (56.7 per cent).
• regarding geographical distribution, provinces with the highest proportions of obese adults as compared to the national average were newfoundland and labrador, prince edward island, nova scotia, new brunswick, manitoba, saskatchewan, and alberta.

advancements in obesity intervention

one notable advancement in obesity intervention is the development of pharmacological treatments . pharmaceutical companies have worked diligently to create medications that can help individuals struggling with obesity to lose weight or manage their weight more effectively. one such example is semaglutide, an antidiabetic and anti-obesity medication that has shown promising results in clinical trials.

semaglutide works by mimicking the effects of the hormone glucagon-like peptide-1 (glp-1), which promotes feelings of fullness and helps regulate blood sugar levels. it has been approved for the treatment of type 2 diabetes as well as long-term weight management, offering individuals a potential solution for both conditions.

another area of advancement lies in bariatric surgery techniques. bariatric surgeries , such as gastric bypass and sleeve gastrectomy, have undergone significant improvements over the years, making them safer and more effective options for individuals with severe obesity. these surgical interventions work by altering the anatomy of the digestive system to reduce food intake or absorption, resulting in weight loss.

• behavioural interventions focus on addressing the underlying psychological factors that contribute to obesity. these interventions include cognitive-behavioural therapy, which helps individuals develop healthier habits, manage stress, and address emotional eating patterns.
• technology-based interventions have gained popularity, offering smartphone apps, wearables, and online platforms that provide personalized guidance, tracking tools, and motivational support to individuals on their weight management journey. the rise of health and fitness apps has allowed people to track their calorie intake, set exercise goals, receive nutritional guidance, and connect with others for support and motivation—providing weight management tools right at our fingertips.