Majority of adult Aussies now overweight or obese

More than two-thirds of Australians are obese or overweight, with the chronic conditions becoming the leading risk factor for an early death.

New figures released on Wednesday from the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW) show 13 million adults have excess weight. Among children aged two to 17, there are 27 per cent carrying too many kilograms.

The study also reveals the cost the obesity crisis, with Australia forking out about $800 million to treat obesity during 2023-24. But the bill for other health conditions linked to being overweight was $10 billion.

Rates of obesity - calculated by weight circumference - nearly doubled from 1995 to 2022-24.

Being overweight or obese has surpassed tobacco use in becoming the main risk factor leading to death.

The research shows more men than women are designated overweight, but $570 million was spent annually treating females for the condition, compared with $210 million on males.

The chances of being overweight or obese increase disproportionately for people living in low socioeconomic regions.

The data reveals more younger people are carrying too much weight. From 46 per cent of Australians aged 45 to 54 being overweight or obese in the early 1990s, the figure grew to 55 per cent over the following decade.

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The AIHW report says while many factors outside a person’s control, including the environments people live in, drive major weight gain, individuals are often stigmatised.

“People living with overweight or obesity experience conscious and unconscious weight stigma in many social settings, due to the perception that obesity is a personal responsibility. This disregards the complex nature of overweight and obesity.”

To combat the crisis, the AIHW says a holistic strategy is required based around an individual’s requirements. Treatments may include weight-loss surgery in tandem with changes in lifestyle.