Obesity Rates Surge in Canada During Pandemic Years

A recent report highlights a troubling trend: the prevalence of obesity in Canada rose significantly faster during the COVID-19 pandemic than in the preceding eleven years. The study, published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal, indicates that young adults were particularly affected by this increase.

The research analyzed data from nearly 750,000 individuals aged 18 and older over a span of 15 years. It revealed that obesity rates climbed by approximately 8% from 2009 to 2020. In stark contrast, the rate surged by over 1 percentage point per year between 2020 and 2023, nearly double the rate observed prior to the pandemic.

Laura Anderson, an associate professor at McMaster University and the study’s lead author, attributes this notable increase to the impact of public health restrictions instituted during the pandemic. She pointed out a “steep increase” in obesity rates among young adults, particularly young females, who experienced an alarming rise of 4.7% in obesity within the youngest age bracket between 2020 and 2023.

Dr. Mélanie Henderson, a pediatric endocrinologist and researcher at CHU Sainte-Justine, emphasized the role of pandemic-related disruptions. The closures of gyms, schools, and workplaces created an environment devoid of structure, leading to increased screen time and easier access to food. “It was kind of the perfect storm,” said Dr. Henderson, who was not involved in the study. She noted that adolescence is a critical period, making younger adults particularly vulnerable to the challenges posed by the pandemic.

The study also suggested that stress related to job insecurity and caregiving responsibilities may have contributed to weight gain among certain individuals. The authors advocate for further research to gain a clearer understanding of the underlying causes and how they can be effectively addressed in the future.

Dr. Henderson outlined that a crucial first step is to establish policies ensuring that healthcare services are accessible for the treatment and management of obesity. The findings of this study underscore a growing public health concern that necessitates immediate action and long-term strategies.

This report was first published on July 14, 2025, and is part of ongoing health coverage supported by a partnership with the Canadian Medical Association.