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Are You Overweight?

As of 2022, 22.0% of the Hong Kong population aged 15–84 was classified as overweight. A further 32.6% was considered obese, bringing the total proportion of people who are overweight or obese to 54.6%.*
 

*These figures are based on the Population Health Survey 2020–22, conducted by Hong Kong's Department of Health. The criteria for overweight and obesity in Hong Kong are adjusted for the Asian population: 

  • Overweight: Body Mass Index (BMI) of 23.0 to less than 25.0 kg/m²

  • Obese: BMI of 25.0 kg/m² or higher

  • By gender (2020–22):
    • Males: 24.6% were overweight, and 39.4% were obese.
    • Females: 19.7% were overweight, and 26.4% were obese.
  • By age group (2020–22): The prevalence of being overweight or obese peaks among middle-aged adults, reaching 61.5% for those aged 45–54.
  • Central obesity: Using waist circumference measurements, 37.8% of individuals aged 15–84 were classified as centrally obese. 
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Blood Pressure Monitor

The prevalence of overweight and obesity in Hong Kong is a growing concern, with factors such as long working hours, easy access to calorie-dense foods, and sedentary lifestyles contributing to the issue.

 

The Centre for Health Protection also notes that insufficient physical activity and inadequate fruit and vegetable intake are common among adults. 

Health problems associated with being overweight in Hong Kong, as in other populations, include metabolic and chronic diseases like type 2 diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, and fatty liver disease. Overweight and obesity also increase the risk of respiratory issues such as sleep apnea, joint problems like osteoarthritis, and certain types of cancer. 
 
Metabolic & Chronic Diseases

  • Type 2 Diabetes:

    Excess weight disrupts normal metabolism and leads to insulin resistance, a precursor to type 2 diabetes. 

  • Heart Disease & Stroke:

    High blood pressure and high cholesterol, which are common in overweight individuals, significantly increase the risk of heart disease and stroke. 

  • Metabolic Syndrome:

    A cluster of conditions (high blood pressure, high blood sugar, unhealthy cholesterol levels, and excess body fat) that raise the risk for heart disease, diabetes, and fatty liver disease. 

  • Fatty Liver Disease:

    Particularly non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, is linked to being overweight.

 

Respiratory & Joint Problems

  • Sleep Apnea:

    Excess weight can worsen respiratory problems and lead to sleep apnea, a condition that disrupts breathing during sleep and can cause fatigue and cardiovascular issues. 

  • Asthma:

    Obesity is associated with increased inflammation, which can exacerbate asthma symptoms. 

  • Osteoarthritis:

    Carrying extra weight places significant strain on joints and the spine, increasing the risk of osteoarthritis and causing chronic pain and reduced mobility. 

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Other Health Issues

  • Certain Cancers: Obesity increases the risk of developing several types of cancer, including colorectal and endometrial cancer. 

  • Digestive Problems: Overweight individuals are more prone to gallstones and gallbladder disease. 

  • Mental Health: Mental health issues can also be associated with obesity. 

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