Recent height/weight measurements conducted in our country on nearly 10 million people revealed striking results. Only 30% of the population is at a normal weight. Today, many people frequently hear the terms “overweight” or “obesity.” Looking at these results, it is clear that obesity has become a serious public health problem.
- According to one study, approximately 67% of the adult population in Türkiye is overweight; 32% falls into the obesity category.
- According to 2022 TURKSTAT (TÜİK) data, the obesity rate among individuals aged 15 and over in Türkiye was reported as 20.2%.
Where Is All This Weight Coming From?
There isn’t a single reason behind being overweight; many factors are intertwined.
- Unhealthy eating habits
Consumption of ready-made foods, processed foods, sugary drinks, and fast food is increasing. These types of foods are generally high in calories and low in nutritional value.
- Decreased physical activity
Office work, desk jobs, reduced daily movement… With increased technology use, people have started living more sedentary lives.
- Aging and metabolic changes
As we get older, metabolism slows down; even if we consume the same foods, the body burns them more slowly. It is important to take weight control under control early and develop healthy eating and activity habits for life.
- Education level and socioeconomic factors
People with a lower level of education generally have less knowledge about healthy eating and exercise. In addition, income level affects access to healthy foods.
- Family and genetic factors
Risk is higher in individuals with obesity or weight problems in the family. Genetic predisposition also plays a role.
- Stress, sleep disorders, and psychological factors
A stressful life, emotional eating, and lack of sleep can also trigger weight gain.
- Urban lifestyle
With urbanization, car use, elevator use, and motorized transportation are more common; activities such as walking and cycling are decreasing.
What Kind of Challenges Does Excess Weight Cause?
Excess weight is not only about appearance or aesthetics; it opens the door to many serious health problems. The risk of cardiovascular diseases such as high blood pressure, arterial blockage, and heart attack increases. Obesity can lead to type 2 diabetes and insulin resistance. It may cause metabolic syndrome, leading to multiple impairments at once in waist circumference, blood sugar, blood pressure, and lipid levels. Low back pain, knee and joint problems are more common. Problems such as sleep apnea and shortness of breath increase. Low self-esteem, depression, and anxiety disorders may occur. The risk of certain cancers rises (for example, breast and colon). Moving becomes more difficult, and participation in social activities may decrease.
What Can Be Done?
The most effective solution in the fight against excess weight is adopting healthy eating and regular exercise habits. Avoiding fast food and sugary foods, following a balanced diet rich in vegetables and fruits, and engaging in activities such as at least 150 minutes of walking per week are recommended. Sleep routine and stress management also play an important role in weight control.
At the community level, health education in schools, increasing walking areas, and making access to healthy foods easier are necessary. Obesity can be prevented through early diagnosis and individual support systems within healthcare services.
References
Evra Karakaya, R., & Elibol, E. (2025). The relationship between sociodemographic characteristics, lifestyle, and diet quality with diabetes risk in overweight and obese Turkish adults. BMC Public Health. (BioMed Central)
Hatemi, H., Yumuk, V. D., Turan, N., & Arik, N. (2003). Prevalence of overweight and obesity in Turkey. Metabolic Syndrome and Related Disorders. (Liebert Publications)
Prevalence of Overweight and Obesity in Turkey. (2015). IJC Metabolic & Endocrine. (ScienceDirect)Prevalence of overweight and obesity in Turkish adults (milliyet araştırması). (Year not specified). PubMed. (PubMed)
