In England, a recent report has revealed a significant increase in obesity rates, with the majority of affected individuals located in Yorkshire, the Midlands, and the North East—regions that dominate the top 10 local areas with the highest obesity prevalence.
Obesity, which contributes to reduced life expectancy and is linked to several risk factors such as cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and mental health conditions, has evolved into a complex and global health challenge.
Among the 44 local areas assessed, Doncaster, Stockton-on-Tees, and Walsall—each with 33.3% of adults below the national margin in 2018/2019—have continued to show high obesity rates in 2023/2024.
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According to a publication by the Office for Health Improvement and Disparities (OHID), data from the Sport England Active Lives Adult Survey (March 2024) shows that West Lindsey in Lincolnshire recorded the highest percentage of adults living with obesity, at 38%.
Hartlepool and Bolsover in Derbyshire followed closely, each with a rate of 37.9%.
Of the 317 local authorities that participated in the survey, it is estimated that at least 1 in 7 recorded obesity rates affecting a third or more of their adult population in 2023/2024.
Overall, 252 local authorities saw an increase in obesity rates, while only 65 reported a decline.
Among ethnic groups, Black adults had the highest obesity prevalence compared to White British, Mixed, and Asian groups.
Conversely, nine of the 10 local authorities with the lowest obesity rates are in southern England. These include Islington (13%), Hammersmith and Fulham (12.1%), and Camden (11.0%) in London.
Between 2022/2023 and 2023/2024, 176 local authorities recorded a significant rise in obesity, while 140 saw a decrease.
The OHID recommends regular physical activity as a key preventive measure, noting that it can reduce the risk of obesity, type 2 diabetes, osteoporosis, and certain cancers (colon and breast), while also improving mental health
