Obesity and overweight are a growing problem in Norway and globally. Many people think it is just about eating too much and exercising too little, but the causes of obesity are more complex than that. It is easy to think that it is just about willpower and dieting, but both genes and society play a significant role. In fact, figures from the World Health Organization (WHO) show that over 2.5 billion adults over the age of 18 were overweight in 2022, and of these, over 890 million were classified as obese. In Norway, about half of the adult population struggles with overweight, and around 20% are obese, according to the Norwegian Institute of Public Health.

Overweight and Obesity in Norway

It's a bit difficult to give an exact figure on how many people are overweight or obese in Norway, as different sources operate with slightly different numbers. But it's safe to say that it is a widespread issue.

Here are some key figures:

• Norwegian Institute of Public Health (FHI): In 2020, their survey showed that 59% of men and 47% of women were overweight or obese (BMI ≥ 25). Overall, this means that over half of the adult population in Norway is overweight or obese.
• Statistics Norway (SSB): Their figures from 2019 indicate that 3 out of 10 Norwegians are either overweight or obese. This is lower than the FHI figures, but still significant.
• Menon Economics: In a report from 2023, they estimate that more than 6 out of 10 in the adult population are overweight or obese.

Some of these figures are based on self-reporting, which can lead to inaccuracies. The prevalence of overweight and obesity varies between different groups in the population, for example by age, gender and place of residence.

Despite some variation in the figures, it is clear that overweight and obesity are a major public health problem in Norway.

Causes of Obesity

Did you know that your genes can affect how easily you gain weight, how fast your metabolism is, and how much you eat? Some people are genetically predisposed to obesity, regardless of lifestyle. In addition, we live in a society that often promotes an unhealthy lifestyle, with readily available and cheap "junk food", and a daily life characterized by sedentary behavior. This contributes to increased BMI figures and health challenges.

Obesity and Overweight: A Disease with Consequences for the Individual and Society

Imagine that you were born with genes that make you gain weight more easily. You live in an area with few opportunities to exercise, and you have a job that requires you to sit still for much of the day. In addition, you may not be able to afford to buy healthy food, or have time to prepare it. Is it any wonder then that you struggle with your weight?

It is important to remember that obesity and overweight are a disease, not a moral failing. It is not fair to place all the blame on the individual when there are so many other factors at play.

Health Consequences for the Individual

Obesity and overweight increase the risk of a number of serious health problems, including:

• Cardiovascular disease
• Type 2 diabetes
• High blood pressure
• Some types of cancer
• Sleep apnea
• Osteoarthritis
• Mental health problems such as depression and anxiety

Socioeconomic Consequences

Obesity and overweight also have major socioeconomic consequences. A report from Menon Economics estimates that the societal costs associated with obesity and overweight in Norway were a staggering 27 billion NOK in 2022. This includes costs for health services, sick leave, and lost productivity.

Prevention and Treatment of Obesity

We need a society that makes it easier to make healthy choices to prevent overweight. This means better access to healthy food, more safe places to be active, and less advertising for unhealthy food. We also need more understanding that obesity is a complex disease, and that treating obesity is not always as easy as "just eating less and exercising more."

Medical Weight Loss at Dr.Dropin

If you are struggling with obesity and want to lose weight, it is important to remember that you are not alone. There is help available. Dr.Dropin offers medical weight loss with follow-up by doctors who are specialists in the field. They can help you find a treatment that is right for you, including diet and exercise, and provide you with support and guidance along the way. Read more about medical weight loss at Dr.Dropin here.

Important: This blog post is intended as general information only and should not replace advice from a qualified healthcare professional. If you have any questions or concerns about yout health, you should contact your doctor.