Rise in Obesity Rates in Canada Following the COVID-19 Pandemic
A comprehensive study reveals that obesity rates in Canada surged during the COVID-19 pandemic, with faster increases particularly among younger adults. Learn about the trends and implications for public health.
A recent study published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal reveals that obesity rates in Canada have increased at a faster pace during the four years following the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic compared to the previous eleven years. This trend is particularly pronounced among younger adults. Researchers analyzed data from 746,250 adults aged 18 and older, spanning from January 2009 to December 2023. They observed that the prevalence of obesity, defined by body mass index (BMI), rose from 25% in 2009 to 33% in 2022, marking an overall increase of about 8%. Importantly, the rate of BMI increase accelerated post-pandemic, with obesity rising by just over 1 percentage point annually—about double the pre-pandemic rate. The study also highlighted gender differences, noting a 9% increase in obesity among females compared to 7% in males, and higher rates in white and Black populations.
Dr. Laura Anderson, an associate professor at McMaster University and co-director of the Center for Health Economics and Policy Analysis, explained that although obesity was already a growing concern before COVID-19, the pandemic appears to have exacerbated this trend. She added that several groups, including females and young adults, showed significant increases in obesity rates during this period, raising concerns about long-term health consequences.
The research also noted a slight increase in underweight individuals, emphasizing that both underweight and overweight conditions can pose health risks. The authors stressed the importance of targeted efforts for obesity prevention and treatment, considering the potential unintended effects of weight control messaging on those with eating disorders. They advocate for increased investment in research and policies to address this rising public health issue.
This study underscores the urgent need for comprehensive strategies to combat obesity in Canada, especially in the wake of pandemic-related lifestyle changes. Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-07-obesity-canada-covid-pandemic.html
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