Fact Check: More obesity among the less educated in rich countries
What We Know
The claim that "more obesity among the less educated in rich countries" is supported by various studies and reports indicating a correlation between education level and obesity rates. Research shows that lower educational attainment is often linked to higher obesity prevalence, particularly in wealthier nations. For instance, the World Obesity Atlas 2025 indicates that socioeconomic factors, including education, play a significant role in obesity trends. The report highlights that individuals with lower educational levels are more likely to experience obesity due to factors such as limited access to healthy food options and lower health literacy.
Additionally, a study projecting obesity prevalence in the USA and 18 European countries found that obesity rates are expected to peak among populations with lower socioeconomic status, which often correlates with lower educational attainment (Janssen et al., 2020). This study utilized a novel projection methodology that considers various demographic factors, including education, to forecast obesity trends.
Analysis
The evidence supporting the claim is substantial, particularly from the World Obesity Atlas 2025, which emphasizes the role of education in obesity prevalence. The report notes that two-thirds of countries are ill-prepared to address rising obesity levels, which disproportionately affects those with lower education. This suggests a systemic issue where educational disparities contribute to health inequalities.
Moreover, the findings from Janssen et al. (2020) reinforce this notion, as they project that obesity will peak among less educated populations in rich countries (source-1). However, while the correlation is evident, the causative factors are complex and multifaceted. Factors such as income, access to healthcare, cultural attitudes towards diet and exercise, and urban planning also significantly influence obesity rates.
Critically, while both sources are reputable, the World Obesity Federation and the authors of the obesity projection study are focused on public health and demographic research, which lends credibility to their findings. However, it is essential to note that the relationship between education and obesity may not be uniform across all rich countries, as cultural and systemic differences can lead to varying outcomes.
Conclusion
The claim that there is "more obesity among the less educated in rich countries" is Partially True. While there is strong evidence supporting the correlation between lower education levels and higher obesity rates, the relationship is influenced by various other factors, including socioeconomic status and access to resources. Therefore, while the claim holds validity, it oversimplifies a complex issue that requires a broader understanding of the underlying causes.
Sources
- Obesity Prevalence in the Long-Term Future in 18 European Countries and in the USA
- World Obesity Atlas 2025: Majority of countries unprepared for rising obesity level
- World Obesity Atlas 2025
- WORLD HEART REPORT 2025 OBESITY
- Obesity Rates by Country 2025
- World Obesity Atlas 2025
- World Obesity Atlas 2025
- A forecasting study for the Global Burden of Disease
