Brazil
- Overview
- Obesity prevalence
- Trends over time
- Population breakdowns
- Drivers
- Comorbidities
- Health systems
- Actions
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National obesity risk *7.5/10This is a composite ‘obesity risk’ score (out of 10, the highest risk) based on obesity prevalence, rate of increase, likelihood of meeting the 2025 target, treatment indicator and childhood stunting levels.Childhood obesity risk *8/11This is a ‘risk score’ for each country’s likelihood of having or acquiring a major childhood obesity problem during the 2020s, taking account of current prevalence levels and risk for future obesity (based on stunting among infants, maternal obesity, maternal smoking, and breastfeeding rates).
* Based on estimated data. For more information see Publications
Obesity prevalence
Trends over time
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The report card collates all the most-recent graphics for this country. If you would like to produce a custom report based on selected graphics, just tap the Add to custom PDF button below the graphics you would like to use.Population breakdowns
Drivers
Comorbidities
Health systems
Actions
Obesity prevalence
Adults, 2013-2014
| Survey type: | Measured |
| Age: | 18+ |
| Sample size: | 59402 |
| Area covered: | National |
| References: | FERREIRA, Arthur Pate de Souza; SZWARCWALD, Célia Landmann and DAMACENA, Giseli Nogueira. Prevalence of obesity and associated factors in the Brazilian population: a study of data from the 2013 National Health Survey. Rev. bras. epidemiol. [online]. 2019, vol.22 [cited 2019-05-16], e190024. Available from: http://www.scielo.br/scielo.php?script=sci_arttext&pid=S1415-790X2019000100420&lng=en&nrm=iso. Epub Apr 01, 2019. ISSN 1415-790X. http://dx.doi.org/10.1590/1980-549720190024. |
| Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m². | |
Adults, 2008-2009
| Survey type: | Measured |
| Age: | 20+ |
| Sample size: | 121081 |
| Area covered: | National |
| References: | Ministério da Saúde. Pesquisa de Orcamentos Familiares 2008-9. Antrompoetria E Esado Nutricional de Crianças, Adolescentes E Adultos No Brasil. Instituto Brasileiro de Geografi a e Estatística (IBGE) 2010. |
| Notes: | Please note self reported (estimated height & weight) survey data exists for 2015 from the Brazil National Health and Wellness Survey |
| Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m². | |
Adults, 2002-2003
| Survey type: | Measured |
| Age: | 20+ |
| Sample size: | 93329 |
| Area covered: | National |
| References: | Monteiro CA, Conde WL and Popkin BA. (2007). Income-specific trends in obesity in Brazil: 1975 - 2003. American Journal of Public Health, 97 (10): 1808 - 1812. |
| Notes: | Data from National Househood Budget Survey. |
| Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m². | |
Adults, 2001
| Survey type: | Measured |
| Age: | 20-64 |
| Sample size: | 1252 |
| References: | Peixoto Mdo R, Benício MH, Jardim PC. The relationship between body mass index and lifestyle in a Brazilian adult population: a cross-sectional survey. Cad Saude Publica. 2007 Nov;23(11):2694-740 |
| Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m². | |
Adults, 1997
| Survey type: | Measured |
| Age: | 20+ |
| Sample size: | Not specified |
| References: | Filozof C, Gonzales C, Sereday M, Mazza C, Braguinsky J. Obesity prevalence and trends in Latin American countries. Obesity Reviews, 2001;2:99-196 |
| Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m². | |
Adults, 1989
| Survey type: | Measured |
| Age: | 25-64 |
| Sample size: | Not specified |
| References: | Barguinsky J. Obesity prevalence in Latin America. Anales Sis San Navarra 2002;25(Suppl 1):S109-115 |
| Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m². | |
Adults, 1975
| Survey type: | Measured |
| Age: | 20+ |
| Sample size: | 78031 |
| References: | Monteiro CA, Conde WL, Popking BM. Is obesity replacing or adding to undernutrition? Evidence from different social classes in Brazil. 2002. Public Health Nutrition:51(1A), 105-112 |
| Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m². | |
Children, 2013-2014
| Survey type: | Measured |
| Age: | 12-17 |
| Sample size: | 73399 |
| Area covered: | National |
| References: | Bloch KV, Klein CH,Szklo M, Kuschnir MCC, Abreu GA, Barufaldi LA et al. ERICA: prevalences of hypertension and obesity in Brazilian adolescents. Rev Saude Publica. 2016;50(suppl 1):9s. |
| Notes: | Z Score Cut Off (1 to <2) Overweight, >2 Obesity |
| Cutoffs: | WHO |
Children, 2009-2011
| Survey type: | Measured |
| Age: | 7-10 |
| Sample size: | 1947 |
| Area covered: | National |
| References: | Flores LS, Gaya AR, Petersen RD, Gaya AC. Trends of underweight, overweight, and obesity in Brazilian children and adolescents. J Pediatr (Rio J). 2013;89:456–61. |
| Notes: | The subject was classified as underweight, normal weight, overweight, or obese, according to the categories proposed by Conde and Monteiro. |
| Cutoffs: | Other |
Children, 2008-2009
| Survey type: | Measured |
| Age: | 5-9 |
| Sample size: | 17491 |
| Area covered: | National |
| References: | http://www.ibge.gov.br/home/estatistica/populacao/condicaodevida/pof/2008_2009/POFpublicacao.pdf |
| Notes: | WHO 2007 Cut off |
| Cutoffs: | WHO |
Children, 2002
| Survey type: | Measured |
| Age: | 7-10 |
| Sample size: | 2936 |
| Area covered: | National |
| References: | de Assis MAA, Rolland-Cachera MF, Grosseman S, de Vasconcelos FAG, Luna MEP, Calvo MCM, Barros MVG, Pires MMS and Bellisle F. 2005. Obesity, overweight and thiness in schoolchildren of the city of Florianópolis, Southern Brazil. European Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 59: 1015 - 1021. |
| Notes: | IOTF Cut off. Reference: Cole TJ, Bellizzi MC, Flegal KM, Dietz WH. Establishing a standard definition for child overweight and obesity worldwide: International survey. BMJ. 2000 May 6;320(7244):1240-3. |
| Cutoffs: | IOTF |
Children, 1997
| Survey type: | Measured |
| Age: | 5-17 |
| Sample size: | 4875 |
| References: | Wang Y, Monteiro C, Popkin BM. Trends of obesity and underweight in older children and adolescents in the United States, Brazil, China and Russia. AM J Clin Nutr. 2002;75:971-7 |
| Notes: | IOTF Cut off. Reference: Cole TJ, Bellizzi MC, Flegal KM, Dietz WH. Establishing a standard definition for child overweight and obesity worldwide: International survey. BMJ. 2000 May 6;320(7244):1240-3. |
| Cutoffs: | IOTF |
Children, 1989
| Survey type: | Measured |
| Age: | 10 |
| Sample size: | 783 |
| References: | Bellizzi MC, Horgan GW, Guillaume M, Dietz WH. Prevalence of childhood and adolescent overweight and obesity in Asian and European countries. In: Obesity in Childhood and Adolescence. Editors: Chunming Chen, William H. Dietz. Nestle Nutrition Workshop Series Pediatric Program. Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams and Wilkins, 2002. |
| Notes: | IOTF Cut off. Reference: Cole TJ, Bellizzi MC, Flegal KM, Dietz WH. Establishing a standard definition for child overweight and obesity worldwide: International survey. BMJ. 2000 May 6;320(7244):1240-3. |
| Cutoffs: | IOTF |
Children, 1974
| Survey type: | Measured |
| Age: | 5-17 |
| Sample size: | 56295 |
| References: | Wang Y, Monteiro C, Popkin BM. Trends of obesity and underweight in older children and adolescents in the United States, Brazil, China and Russia. AM J Clin Nutr. 2002;75:971-7 |
| Notes: | IOTF Cut off. Reference: Cole TJ, Bellizzi MC, Flegal KM, Dietz WH. Establishing a standard definition for child overweight and obesity worldwide: International survey. BMJ. 2000 May 6;320(7244):1240-3. |
| Cutoffs: | IOTF |
% Adults living with obesity in Brazil 1975-2014
| Survey type: | Measured |
| References: | 1975: Monteiro CA, Conde WL, Popking BM. Is obesity replacing or adding to undernutrition? Evidence from different social classes in Brazil. 2002. Public Health Nutrition:51(1A), 105-112 1997: Filozof C, Gonzales C, Sereday M, Mazza C, Braguinsky J. Obesity prevalence and trends in Latin American countries. Obesity Reviews, 2001;2:99-196 2002: Monteiro CA, Conde WL and Popkin BA. (2007). Income-specific trends in obesity in Brazil: 1975 - 2003. American Journal of Public Health, 97 (10): 1808 - 1812. 2008: Ministério da Saúde. Pesquisa de Orcamentos Familiares 2008-9. Antrompoetria E Esado Nutricional de Crianças, Adolescentes E Adultos No Brasil. Instituto Brasileiro de Geografi a e Estatística (IBGE) 2010. 2013: FERREIRA, Arthur Pate de Souza; SZWARCWALD, Célia Landmann and DAMACENA, Giseli Nogueira. Prevalence of obesity and associated factors in the Brazilian population: a study of data from the 2013 National Health Survey. Rev. bras. epidemiol. [online]. 2019, vol.22 [cited 2019-05-16], e190024. Available from: http://www.scielo.br/scielo.php?script=sci_arttext&pid=S1415-790X2019000100420&lng=en&nrm=iso. Epub Apr 01, 2019. ISSN 1415-790X. http://dx.doi.org/10.1590/1980-549720190024. |
| Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m². | |
| Different methodologies may have been used to collect this data and so data from different surveys may not be strictly comparable. Please check with original data sources for methodologies used. | |
% Adults living with overweight or obesity in Brazil 1975-2014
| Survey type: | Measured |
| References: | 1975: Monteiro CA, Conde WL, Popking BM. Is obesity replacing or adding to undernutrition? Evidence from different social classes in Brazil. 2002. Public Health Nutrition:51(1A), 105-112 1997: Filozof C, Gonzales C, Sereday M, Mazza C, Braguinsky J. Obesity prevalence and trends in Latin American countries. Obesity Reviews, 2001;2:99-196 2002: Monteiro CA, Conde WL and Popkin BA. (2007). Income-specific trends in obesity in Brazil: 1975 - 2003. American Journal of Public Health, 97 (10): 1808 - 1812. 2008: Ministério da Saúde. Pesquisa de Orcamentos Familiares 2008-9. Antrompoetria E Esado Nutricional de Crianças, Adolescentes E Adultos No Brasil. Instituto Brasileiro de Geografi a e Estatística (IBGE) 2010. 2013: FERREIRA, Arthur Pate de Souza; SZWARCWALD, Célia Landmann and DAMACENA, Giseli Nogueira. Prevalence of obesity and associated factors in the Brazilian population: a study of data from the 2013 National Health Survey. Rev. bras. epidemiol. [online]. 2019, vol.22 [cited 2019-05-16], e190024. Available from: http://www.scielo.br/scielo.php?script=sci_arttext&pid=S1415-790X2019000100420&lng=en&nrm=iso. Epub Apr 01, 2019. ISSN 1415-790X. http://dx.doi.org/10.1590/1980-549720190024. |
| Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m². | |
| Different methodologies may have been used to collect this data and so data from different surveys may not be strictly comparable. Please check with original data sources for methodologies used. | |
Overweight/obesity by education
Adults, 2011
| Survey type: | Self-reported |
| Age: | 18+ |
| Sample size: | Approx. 54,000 |
| Area covered: | National |
| References: | MALTA, Deborah Carvalho et al. Trends in prevalence of overweight and obesity in adults in 26 Brazilian state capitals and the Federal District from 2006 to 2012. Rev. bras. epidemiol. [online]. 2014, vol.17, suppl.1 [cited 2017-11-13], pp.267-276. Available from: <http://www.scielo.br/scielo.php?script=sci_arttext&pid=S1415-790X2014000500267&lng=en&nrm=iso>. ISSN 1415-790X. http://dx.doi.org/10.1590/1809-4503201400050021 |
| Notes: | Prevalence of overweight and obesity by educational level (years of study) |
| Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m². | |
Adults, 2008-2010
| Survey type: | Measured |
| Age: | 20-59 |
| Sample size: | 527 |
| Area covered: | Regional - N.Eastern Brazil |
| References: | Lima R P A, Pereira D C, Luna R C P, et al. BMI, Overweight Status and Obesity Adjusted by Various Factors in All Age Groups in the Population of a City in Northeastern Brazil. Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2015, 12, 4422-4438; doi:10.3390/ijerph120404422 |
| Notes: | < elementary school, corresponding to 9 years or less of schooling, and ≥incomplete high school, corresponding to more than 9 years of education. |
| Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m². | |
Boys, 2007
| Survey type: | Measured |
| Age: | 7-14 |
| Sample size: | 2826 |
| Area covered: | Subnational - Municipality of Florianópolis |
| References: | Bernardo, Carla de Oliveira, & Vasconcelos, Francisco de Assis Guedes de. (2012). Association of parents' nutritional status, and sociodemographic and dietary factors with overweight/obesity in schoolchildren 7 to 14 years old. Cadernos de Saúde Pública,28(2), 291-304. Retrieved April 04, 2016, from http://www.scielosp.org/scielo.php?script=sci_arttext&pid=S0102-311X2012000200008&lng=en&tlng=en. |
| Notes: | Prevalence of obesity based on Father's schooling years. For the analyses, the schoolchildren were classified into two groups: not overweight or obese (values equivalent to BMI < 25kg/m2 in adults) and overweight or obese (values equivalent to BMI ≥ 25kg/m2 in adults) |
| Cutoffs: | IOTF |
Girls, 2007
| Survey type: | Measured |
| Age: | 7-14 |
| Sample size: | 2826 |
| Area covered: | Subnational - Municipality of Florianópolis |
| References: | Bernardo, Carla de Oliveira, & Vasconcelos, Francisco de Assis Guedes de. (2012). Association of parents' nutritional status, and sociodemographic and dietary factors with overweight/obesity in schoolchildren 7 to 14 years old. Cadernos de Saúde Pública,28(2), 291-304. Retrieved April 04, 2016, from http://www.scielosp.org/scielo.php?script=sci_arttext&pid=S0102-311X2012000200008&lng=en&tlng=en. |
| Notes: | Prevalence of obesity based on Father's schooling years. For the analyses, the schoolchildren were classified into two groups: not overweight or obese (values equivalent to BMI < 25kg/m2 in adults) and overweight or obese (values equivalent to BMI ≥ 25kg/m2 in adults) |
| Cutoffs: | IOTF |
Overweight/obesity by age
Adults, 2013
| Survey type: | Measured |
| Sample size: | 59402 |
| References: | FERREIRA, Arthur Pate de Souza; SZWARCWALD, Célia Landmann and DAMACENA, Giseli Nogueira. Prevalence of obesity and associated factors in the Brazilian population: a study of data from the 2013 National Health Survey. Rev. bras. epidemiol. [online]. 2019, vol.22 [cited 2020-06-11], e190024. Available from: <http://www.scielo.br/scielo.php?script=sci_arttext&pid=S1415-790X2019000100420&lng=en&nrm=iso>. Epub Apr 01, 2019. ISSN 1980-5497. https://doi.org/10.1590/1980-549720190024. |
| Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m². | |
Adults, 2008-2009
| Survey type: | Measured |
| Sample size: | 121081 |
| Area covered: | National |
| References: | Ministério da Saúde. Pesquisa de Orcamentos Familiares 2008-9. Antrompoetria E Esado Nutricional de Crianças, Adolescentes E Adultos No Brasil. Instituto Brasileiro de Geografi a e Estatística (IBGE) 2010. |
| Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m². | |
Children, 2013-2014
| Survey type: | Measured |
| Sample size: | 73399 |
| Area covered: | National |
| References: | Bloch KV, Klein CH,Szklo M, Kuschnir MCC, Abreu GA, Barufaldi LA et al. ERICA: prevalences of hypertension and obesity in Brazilian adolescents. Rev Saude Publica. 2016;50(suppl 1):9s. |
| Definitions: | WHO |
| Cutoffs: | WHO |
Children, 2009-2011
| Survey type: | Measured |
| Sample size: | 4140 |
| Area covered: | National |
| References: | Flores LS, Gaya AR, Petersen RD, Gaya AC. Trends of underweight, overweight, and obesity in Brazilian children and adolescents. J Pediatr (Rio J). 2013;89:456–61. |
| Notes: | The subject was classified as underweight, normal weight, overweight, or obese, according to the categories proposed by Conde and Monteiro. |
| Cutoffs: | Other |
Overweight/obesity by region
Adults, 2012
| Survey type: | Self-reported |
| Age: | 18+ |
| Sample size: | Approx 54000 |
| Area covered: | National |
| References: | MALTA, Deborah Carvalho et al. Trends in prevalence of overweight and obesity in adults in 26 Brazilian state capitals and the Federal District from 2006 to 2012. Rev. bras. epidemiol. [online]. 2014, vol.17, suppl.1 [cited 2016-04-20], pp.267-276. |
| Notes: | Prevalence of Obesity by Cities in each Region. The VIGITEL data analyzed in this study include weight and height reported by the respondents as well as their age, gender and level of schooling/education. In 2012, the VIGITEL performed the imputation of the missing data on weight and height. |
| Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m². | |
Boys, 2004-2005
| Survey type: | Measured |
| Age: | 10-15 |
| Sample size: | 36976 |
| Area covered: | National |
| References: | Pelegrini, Andreia, Luiz Petroski, Edio, da Silva Coqueiro, Raildo, & Araujo Gaya, Adroaldo César. (2008). Overweight and obesity in brazilian schoolchildren aged 10 to 15 years: data from a Brazilian sports project. Archivos Latinoamericanos de Nutrición, 58(4), 343-349. Recuperado en 04 de abril de 2016, de http://www.scielo.org.ve/scielo.php?script=sci_arttext&pid=S0004-06222008000400004&lng=es&tlng=en. |
| Notes: | International cut-off BMI values were used for the evaluation of nutritional status (Cole et al) |
| Cutoffs: | IOTF |
Girls, 2004-2005
| Survey type: | Measured |
| Age: | 10-15 |
| Sample size: | 36976 |
| Area covered: | National |
| References: | Pelegrini, Andreia, Luiz Petroski, Edio, da Silva Coqueiro, Raildo, & Araujo Gaya, Adroaldo César. (2008). Overweight and obesity in brazilian schoolchildren aged 10 to 15 years: data from a Brazilian sports project. Archivos Latinoamericanos de Nutrición, 58(4), 343-349. Recuperado en 04 de abril de 2016, de http://www.scielo.org.ve/scielo.php?script=sci_arttext&pid=S0004-06222008000400004&lng=es&tlng=en. |
| Notes: | International cut-off BMI values were used for the evaluation of nutritional status (Cole et al) |
| Cutoffs: | IOTF |
Overweight/obesity by socio-economic group
Adults, 2008-2010
| Survey type: | Measured |
| Age: | 20-59 |
| Sample size: | 527 |
| Area covered: | Regional - N. Eastern Brazil |
| References: | Lima R P A, Pereira D C, Luna R C P, et al. BMI, Overweight Status and Obesity Adjusted by Various Factors in All Age Groups in the Population of a City in Northeastern Brazil. Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2015, 12, 4422-4438; doi:10.3390/ijerph120404422 |
| Notes: | WHO BMI classification of 1995 used for Adults. Median family income, R$1000.00, or $492.02. |
| Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m². | |
Children, 2010
| Survey type: | Measured |
| Age: | 6-10 |
| Sample size: | 939 |
| Area covered: | Municipality of Cruzeiro do Oeste, Southern Brazil. |
| References: | Azambuja, Ana Paula de O., Netto-Oliveira, Edna Regina, Oliveira, Amauri Aparecido B. de, Azambuja, Maximiliano dos Anjos, & Rinaldi, Wilson. (2013). Prevalence of overweight/obesity and economical status of schoolchildren. Revista Paulista de Pediatria, 31(2), 166-171. https://dx.doi.org/10.1590/S0103-05822013000200006 |
| Notes: | The socioeconomic status was defined through a questionnaire of economic classification by the Brazilian Association of Research Companies РAssociação Brasileira de Empresas de Pesquisa, ABEP. This classification is based on items such as ownership of goods (television, radio, car, vacuum cleaner, VCR and/or DVD player, fridge, freezer and washing machine), services (housemaid), household characteristics (number of bathrooms) and educational level of the head of the household. The total score for each item results in the classification of respondents into seven strata identified as "social classes" A1, A2, B1, B2, C, D, and E(17). For analysis purposes, the eight economic levels, proposed by ABEP, were regrouped and named as follows: A1, A2, and B1 in High Economic Level (H); B2, C1 and C2 in Medium Economic Level (M) and, D and E in Low Economic Level (L). |
| Cutoffs: | Other |
Children, 2008-2015
| Survey type: | Measured |
| Age: | 6-17 |
| Sample size: | 5962 |
| Area covered: | 11 towns around the Itaipu Lake, Western Paraná |
| References: | Hobold, E., & Arruda, M. (2015). Prevalence of overweight and obesity in schoolchildren: relationship with socioeconomic status, gender and age. Brazilian Journal of Kinanthropometry and Human Performance, 17(2), 156-164. doi:http://dx.doi.org/10.5007/1980-0037.2015v17n2p156 |
| Notes: | IOTF Cut-offs used Socioeconomic status (SES) was defined as A (highest), B, C, and D (lowest) |
| Cutoffs: | IOTF |
Boys, 2007
| Survey type: | Measured |
| Age: | 7-14 |
| Sample size: | 2826 |
| Area covered: | Municipality of Florianópolis |
| References: | Bernardo, Carla de Oliveira, & Vasconcelos, Francisco de Assis Guedes de. (2012). Association of parents' nutritional status, and sociodemographic and dietary factors with overweight/obesity in schoolchildren 7 to 14 years old. Cadernos de Saúde Pública,28(2), 291-304. Retrieved April 04, 2016, from http://www.scielosp.org/scielo.php?script=sci_arttext&pid=S0102-311X2012000200008&lng=en&tlng=en. |
| Notes: | Prevalence of obesity based on income (per capita monthly income R$). 1st tercile: < R$240.00, 2nd tercile: > R$240.00 and < R$500.00, and 3rd tercile: > R$500.00 For the analyses, the schoolchildren were classified into two groups: not overweight or obese (values equivalent to BMI < 25kg/m2 in adults) and overweight or obese (values equivalent to BMI > 25kg/m2 in adults) |
| Cutoffs: | Other |
Girls, 2007
| Survey type: | Measured |
| Age: | 7-14 |
| Sample size: | 2826 |
| Area covered: | Municipality of Florianópolis |
| References: | Bernardo, Carla de Oliveira, & Vasconcelos, Francisco de Assis Guedes de. (2012). Association of parents' nutritional status, and sociodemographic and dietary factors with overweight/obesity in schoolchildren 7 to 14 years old. Cadernos de Saúde Pública,28(2), 291-304. Retrieved April 04, 2016, from http://www.scielosp.org/scielo.php?script=sci_arttext&pid=S0102-311X2012000200008&lng=en&tlng=en. |
| Notes: | Prevalence of obesity based on income (per capita monthly income R$). 1st tercile: < R$240.00, 2nd tercile: > R$240.00 and < R$500.00, and 3rd tercile: > R$500.00 For the analyses, the schoolchildren were classified into two groups: not overweight or obese (values equivalent to BMI < 25kg/m2 in adults) and overweight or obese (values equivalent to BMI > 25kg/m2 in adults) |
| Cutoffs: | Other |
Insufficient physical activity
Adults, 2016
| References: | Guthold R, Stevens GA, Riley LM, Bull FC. Worldwide trends in insufficient physical activity from 2001 to 2016: a pooled analysis of 358 population-based surveys with 1.9 million participants. Lancet 2018 http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/S2214-109X(18)30357-7 |
Men, 2016
| References: | Guthold R, Stevens GA, Riley LM, Bull FC. Worldwide trends in insufficient physical activity from 2001 to 2016: a pooled analysis of 358 population-based surveys with 1.9 million participants. Lancet 2018 http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/S2214-109X(18)30357-7 |
Women, 2016
| References: | Guthold R, Stevens GA, Riley LM, Bull FC. Worldwide trends in insufficient physical activity from 2001 to 2016: a pooled analysis of 358 population-based surveys with 1.9 million participants. Lancet 2018 http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/S2214-109X(18)30357-7 |
Children, 2010
| Age: | 11-17 |
| References: | Global Health Observatory data repository, World Health Organisation, http://apps.who.int/gho/data/node.main.A893?lang=en |
| Notes: | % of school going adolescents not meeting WHO recommendations on Physical Activity for Health, i.e. doing less than 60 minutes of moderate- to vigorous-intensity physical activity daily. |
| Definitions: | % Adolescents insufficiently active (age standardised estimate) |
Boys, 2010
| Age: | 11-17 |
| References: | Global Health Observatory data repository, World Health Organisation, http://apps.who.int/gho/data/node.main.A893?lang=en |
| Notes: | % of school going adolescents not meeting WHO recommendations on Physical Activity for Health, i.e. doing less than 60 minutes of moderate- to vigorous-intensity physical activity daily. |
| Definitions: | % Adolescents insufficiently active (age standardised estimate) |
Girls, 2010
| Age: | 11-17 |
| References: | Global Health Observatory data repository, World Health Organisation, http://apps.who.int/gho/data/node.main.A893?lang=en |
| Notes: | % of school going adolescents not meeting WHO recommendations on Physical Activity for Health, i.e. doing less than 60 minutes of moderate- to vigorous-intensity physical activity daily. |
| Definitions: | % Adolescents insufficiently active (age standardised estimate) |
Estimated per-capita fruit intake
Adults, 2017
| Survey type: | Measured |
| Age: | 25+ |
| References: | Global Burden of Disease, the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation http://ghdx.healthdata.org/ |
| Definitions: | Estimated per-capita fruit intake (g/day) |
Estimated per-capita processed meat intake
Adults, 2017
| Survey type: | Measured |
| Age: | 25+ |
| References: | Global Burden of Disease, the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation http://ghdx.healthdata.org/ |
| Definitions: | Estimated per-capita processed meat intake (g per day) |
Estimated per-capita whole grains intake
Adults, 2017
| Survey type: | Measured |
| Age: | 25+ |
| References: | Global Burden of Disease, the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation http://ghdx.healthdata.org/ |
| Definitions: | Estimated per-capita whole grains intake (g/day) |
Mental health - depression disorders
Adults, 2015
| References: | Prevalence data from Global Burden of Disease study 2015 (http://ghdx.healthdata.org) published in: Depression and Other Common Mental Disorders: Global Health Estimates. Geneva:World Health Organization; 2017. Licence: CC BY-NC-SA 3.0 IGO. |
| Definitions: | % of population with depression disorders |
Mental health - anxiety disorders
Adults, 2015
| References: | Prevalence data from Global Burden of Disease study 2015 (http://ghdx.healthdata.org) published in: Depression and Other Common Mental Disorders: Global Health Estimates. Geneva:World Health Organization; 2017. Licence: CC BY-NC-SA 3.0 IGO. |
| Definitions: | % of population with anxiety disorders |
Oesophageal cancer
Men, 2018
| Age: | 20+ |
| References: | Global Cancer Observatory, Cancer incidence rates http://gco.iarc.fr/ (last accessed 30th June 2020) |
| Definitions: | Estimated age-standardized incidence rates (World) in 2018, oesophagus, adults ages 20+. ASR (World) per 100,000 |
Women, 2018
| Age: | 20+ |
| References: | Global Cancer Observatory, Cancer incidence rates http://gco.iarc.fr/ (last accessed 30th June 2020) |
| Definitions: | Estimated age-standardized incidence rates (World) in 2018, oesophagus, adults ages 20+. ASR (World) per 100,000 |
Breast cancer
Women, 2018
| Age: | 20+ |
| References: | Global Cancer Observatory, Cancer incidence rates http://gco.iarc.fr/ (last accessed 30th June 2020) |
| Definitions: | Estimated age-standardized incidence rates (World) in 2018, breast, females, ages 20+. ASR (World) per 100,000 |
Colorectal cancer
Men, 2018
| Age: | 20+ |
| References: | Global Cancer Observatory, Cancer incidence rates http://gco.iarc.fr/ (last accessed 30th June 2020) |
| Definitions: | Estimated age-standardized incidence rates (World) in 2018, colorectum, adults, ages 20+. ASR (World) per 100,000 |
Women, 2018
| Age: | 20+ |
| References: | Global Cancer Observatory, Cancer incidence rates http://gco.iarc.fr/ (last accessed 30th June 2020) |
| Definitions: | Estimated age-standardized incidence rates (World) in 2018, colorectum, adults, ages 20+. ASR (World) per 100,000 |
Pancreatic cancer
Men, 2018
| Age: | 20+ |
| References: | Global Cancer Observatory, Cancer incidence rates http://gco.iarc.fr/ (last accessed 30th June 2020) |
| Definitions: | Estimated age-standardized incidence rates (World) in 2018, pancreas, adults, ages 20+. ASR (World) per 100,000 |
Women, 2018
| Age: | 20+ |
| References: | Global Cancer Observatory, Cancer incidence rates http://gco.iarc.fr/ (last accessed 30th June 2020) |
| Definitions: | Estimated age-standardized incidence rates (World) in 2018, pancreas, adults, ages 20+. ASR (World) per 100,000 |
Gallbladder cancer
Men, 2018
| Age: | 20+ |
| References: | Global Cancer Observatory, Cancer incidence rates http://gco.iarc.fr/ (last accessed 30th June 2020) |
| Definitions: | Estimated age-standardized incidence rates (World) in 2018, gallbladder, adults, ages 20+. ASR (World) per 100,000 |
Women, 2018
| Age: | 20+ |
| References: | Global Cancer Observatory, Cancer incidence rates http://gco.iarc.fr/ (last accessed 30th June 2020) |
| Definitions: | Estimated age-standardized incidence rates (World) in 2018, gallbladder, adults, ages 20+. ASR (World) per 100,000 |
Kidney cancer
Men, 2018
| Age: | 20+ |
| References: | Global Cancer Observatory, Cancer incidence rates http://gco.iarc.fr/ (last accessed 30th June 2020) |
| Definitions: | Estimated age-standardized incidence rates (World) in 2018, kidney, adults, ages 20+. ASR (World) per 100,000 |
Women, 2018
| Age: | 20+ |
| References: | Global Cancer Observatory, Cancer incidence rates http://gco.iarc.fr/ (last accessed 30th June 2020) |
| Definitions: | Estimated age-standardized incidence rates (World) in 2018, kidney, adults, ages 20+. ASR (World) per 100,000 |
Cancer of the uterus
Women, 2018
| Age: | 20+ |
| References: | Global Cancer Observatory, Cancer incidence rates http://gco.iarc.fr/ (last accessed 30th June 2020) |
| Definitions: | Estimated age-standardized incidence rates (World) in 2018, cervix uteri, females, ages 20+. ASR (World) per 100,000 |
Raised blood pressure
Adults, 2015
| References: | Global Health Observatory data repository, World Health Organisation, http://apps.who.int/gho/data/node.main.A875?lang=en |
| Definitions: | Age Standardised estimated % Raised blood pressure 2015 (SBP>=140 OR DBP>=90). |
Men, 2015
| References: | Global Health Observatory data repository, World Health Organisation, http://apps.who.int/gho/data/node.main.A875?lang=en |
| Definitions: | Age Standardised estimated % Raised blood pressure 2015 (SBP>=140 OR DBP>=90). |
Women, 2015
| References: | Global Health Observatory data repository, World Health Organisation, http://apps.who.int/gho/data/node.main.A875?lang=en |
| Definitions: | Age Standardised estimated % Raised blood pressure 2015 (SBP>=140 OR DBP>=90). |
Raised cholesterol
Adults, 2008
| References: | Global Health Observatory data repository, World Health Organisation, http://apps.who.int/gho/data/node.main.A885 |
| Definitions: | % Raised total cholesterol (>= 5.0 mmol/L) (age-standardized estimate). |
Men, 2008
| References: | Global Health Observatory data repository, World Health Organisation, http://apps.who.int/gho/data/node.main.A885 |
| Definitions: | % Raised total cholesterol (>= 5.0 mmol/L) (age-standardized estimate). |
Women, 2008
| References: | Global Health Observatory data repository, World Health Organisation, http://apps.who.int/gho/data/node.main.A885 |
| Definitions: | % Raised total cholesterol (>= 5.0 mmol/L) (age-standardized estimate). |
Raised fasting blood glucose
Men, 2014-2019
| References: | Global Health Observatory data repository, World Health Organisation, http://apps.who.int/gho/data/node.main.A869?lang=en |
| Definitions: | Age Standardised % raised fasting blood glucose (>= 7.0 mmol/L or on medication). |
Women, 2014-2019
| References: | Global Health Observatory data repository, World Health Organisation, http://apps.who.int/gho/data/node.main.A869?lang=en |
| Definitions: | Age Standardised % raised fasting blood glucose (>= 7.0 mmol/L or on medication). |
Diabetes prevalence
Adults, 2017
| References: | Reproduced with kind permission of IDF, International Diabetes Federation. IDF Diabetes Atlas, 8th edition. Brussels, Belgium: International Diabetes Federation, 2017. http://www.diabetesatlas.org |
| Definitions: | Diabetes age-adjusted comparative prevalence (%). |
Health systems
Economic classification: Upper Middle Income
Health systems summary
Brazil has a universal, publicly funded healthcare system that is known as the Sistema Único de Saúde (SUS). SUS is funded by taxes and contributions from government (at a federal, state and municipal level). The private sector, however, currently serves approximately 25% of the population, as many individuals have the option to purchase insurance plans via their employer or choose to purchase individually (with many receiving tax relief on these payments).
It is widely reported that there is great disparity in treatment availability and quality between public and private healthcare, and so it seems that those that can afford private healthcare purchase it. As a result, out of pocket expenditure in Brazil is relatively high.
Indicators
| Where is the country’s government in the journey towards defining ‘Obesity as a disease’? | Some progress |
| Where is the country’s healthcare provider in the journey towards defining ‘Obesity as a disease’? | Some progress |
| In practice, how is obesity treatment largely funded? | Insurance |
| Is there specialist training available dedicated to the training of health professionals to prevent, diagnose, treat and manage obesity? | Not known |
| Have any taxes or subsidies been put in place to protect/assist/inform the population around obesity? | Yes |
| Are there adequate numbers of trained health professionals in specialties relevant to obesity in urban areas? | No |
| Are there adequate numbers of trained health professionals in specialties relevant to obesity in rural areas? | No |
| Are there any obesity-specific recommendations or guidelines published for adults? | Yes |
| Are there any obesity-specific recommendations or guidelines published for children? | Yes |
Summary of stakeholder feedback
It appears that although obesity is considered a public health priority in Brazil, there is little government action. Obesity is commonly seen as a lifestyle issue and treatment options are limited.
In the public system it appears that only bariatric surgery is covered, meaning that comprehensive treatment and management is only available in the private sector. Costs for private care, however, is unaffordable for most of the Brazilian population, so only the wealthiest can afford obesity-related treatments. Associação Brasileira para o Estudo da Obesidade are currently working towards the approval of obesity medications through the SUS healthcare scheme, which will hopefully make them more affordable. One stakeholder reported that obesity medication is difficult to get privately too, with private insurers rarely funding it.
While a national strategy on NCDs exists, stakeholders were unclear whether there is an accompanying implementation guide. There are also clinical guidelines for obesity treatment, but rate of uptake is reportedly low. In the public system is appears that patients need to a BMI ≥ 35 kg/m² with comorbidities (or ≥ 40 kg/m² without) to qualify for bariatric treatment but even then, there is a long waiting list. Treatment is said to be particularly difficult to access in the rural areas.
Overall, there are inadequate numbers of trained health professionals in specialties relevant to obesity, with there being little to no specialist training available. It was noted that although there are increasing numbers of physicians, they do not have specific obesity training and so qualify ill-equipped to treat and manage obesity.
Based on interviews/survey returns from 5 stakeholders
Last updated: June 2020
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We are currently finalising our data for this section. It will be available from late 2020.
