Obesity rates more than double in Brazilian capitals

Obesity rates in Brazilian capitals and the Federal District have more than doubled over the last 18 years, rising from 11.8% of the adult population in 2006 to 25.7% in 2024, according to Ministry of Health Vigitel data. Additionally, 62.6% of adults in these areas are classified as overweight.

In the state of Bahia, the proportion of adults with obesity grew by 54.5% over ten years, according to the Food and Nutrition Surveillance System (Sivan). Experts note a paradox where food insecurity and obesity coexist, as ultra-processed foods often replace high-quality nutrition.

Medical professionals emphasize that obesity is a multifactorial disease. Beyond caloric intake, factors such as genetics, hormonal changes, metabolic function, and chronic low-grade inflammation play significant roles in weight management and the risk of developing type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular diseases.