Overview

Excess weight, especially obesity, is a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, some musculoskeletal conditions and some cancers. As the level of excess weight increases, so does the risk of developing these conditions. In addition, being overweight can hamper the ability to control or manage chronic conditions.

More reports and statistics on overweight & obesity can be found under Food & nutrition and Physical activity.

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Latest findings

Spending on meals out of home and fast food has risen over time

In 2011–12, discretionary food contributed towards 39% of daily energy intake in those aged 2–18

Children who have an active parent are more likely to be active than those with an inactive parent

Australia had the 6th highest proportion of overweight or obese people aged 15+ among 22 OECD member countries in 2019

2 in 3 (67%) adults were overweight or obese in 2017–18—36% were overweight but not obese and 31% were obese

60% of men and 66% of women in 2017–18 had a waist circumference that indicated a high risk of metabolic complications

Highlights