Study reveals high obesity rates in Brazil

A comprehensive study conducted by the Federal University of Pelotas (UFPel) and global public health organization Vital Strategies has revealed that over half of the Brazilian population (56.8 percent) is overweight.

This figure includes both overweight and obese individuals, defined as having a body mass index (BMI) equal to or higher than 25.

The rate increases to 68.5 percent among individuals aged 45 to 54, while 40.3 percent of those aged 18 to 24 fall into this category.

Furthermore, 10.3 percent of the population has received a medical diagnosis of diabetes, with higher prevalence among those aged 65 and above (26.2 percent) and individuals with up to eight years of schooling (15.7 percent).

Regarding hypertension, 26.6 percent of Brazilians have been diagnosed, with a higher prevalence among women (30.8 percent), individuals aged 65 and above (62.5 percent), and those with up to eight years of schooling (38 percent).

The prevalence drops to less than half (15.6 percent) among individuals with a higher level of education.

The study also found that less than half of the Brazilian population (45.5 percent) consumes vegetables and legumes five or more times a week.

Despite a slight increase in consumption following a drop during the pandemic, the survey highlighted the persistently low consumption among Brazilians.

In terms of physical activity, only 31.5 percent of Brazilians engage in at least 150 minutes of moderate or vigorous physical activity per week.

There are notable differences based on gender, age, and education, with men and individuals with a higher level of education being more physically active.

The study sheds light on the disparities in diet, exercise, and health conditions in Brazil, emphasizing the need for targeted interventions to address these challenges and promote healthier lifestyles among the population.