• Overview
  • Obesity prevalence
  • Trends over time
  • Population breakdowns
  • Drivers
  • Comorbidities
  • Economic impact
  • Policies
  • Contextual factors
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Obesity prevalence

Adults, 2020

Survey type:Self-reported
Age:18+
Sample size:9598
Area covered:National
References:Fontbonne A, Currie A, Tounian P, Picot MC, Foulatier O, Nedelcu M, Nocca D. Prevalence of Overweight and Obesity in France: The 2020 Obepi-Roche Study by the "Ligue Contre l'Obésité". J Clin Med. 2023 Jan 25;12(3):925. doi: 10.3390/jcm12030925. PMID: 36769573; PMCID: PMC9918095.
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².

Adults, 2019

Survey type:Self-reported
Age:18+
Area covered:National
References:Eurostat 2019. Data available at https://appsso.eurostat.ec.europa.eu/nui/show.do?dataset=hlth_ehis_bm1i&lang=en (last accessed 09.08.21)
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².

Adults, 2017

Survey type:Self-reported
Age:18+
Area covered:National
References:EUROSTAT Database http://appsso.eurostat.ec.europa.eu/nui/show.do?dataset=ilc_hch10&lang=en (last accessed 25.08.20)
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².

Adults, 2015

Survey type:Measured
Age:18-74
Sample size:2467
Area covered:National
References:http://invs.santepubliquefrance.fr/beh/2017/13/pdf/2017_13_1.pdf
Notes:NB. Combined adult data estimated. These estimates were calculated by weighting male and female survey results. Weighting based on World Bank Population % total female 2019 (https://data.worldbank.org/indicator/SP.POP.TOTL.FE.ZS - accessed 30.09.20)'
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².

Adults, 2014

Survey type:Self-reported
Age:18+
Area covered:National
References:Eurostat Database:http://appsso.eurostat.ec.europa.eu/nui/show.do?dataset=hlth_ehis_bm1e&lang=en (last accessed 25.08.20)
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².

Adults, 2006-2007

Survey type:Measured
Age:18-74
Sample size:3115
Area covered:National
References:National Study Nutrition Health, ENNS, 2006.
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².

Adults, 2000-2003

Survey type:Self-reported
Age:15+
Area covered:National
References:Eurostat Yearbook 2006/07. A goldmine of statistical information. Available at https://ec.europa.eu/eurostat/documents/2995521/5059290/1-20022007-BP-EN.PDF.pdf/edab8c31-b9f3-4c8e-b4db-4137bd045efa?t=1414683510000 (last accessed 04.11.21)
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².

Adults, 1994

Survey type:Measured
Age:25-79
Sample size:467536
References:AFERO, ALFEDIAM, SNDLF. Recommandations pour le diagnostic, la prevention et le traitement de l'obesite. Societe de Nutrition et de Dietetique de Langue Francaise 1008;33:S1-48
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².

Children, 2016

Survey type:Measured
Age:7-9
Sample size:5,071
Area covered:National
References:Santepublique France., (2016). CORPULENCE DES ENFANTS DE 7 À 9 ANS SCOLARISÉS EN CE1-CE2 EN FRANCE EN 2016. Available: http://invs.santepubliquefrance.fr/fr/Publications-et-outils/Rapports-et-syntheses/Maladies-chroniques-et-traumatismes/2018/Corpulence-des-enfants-de-7-a-9-ans-scolarises-en-CE1-CE2-en-France-en-2016. [Last accessed 13th September 2018].
Cutoffs:IOTF

Children, 2016-2017

Survey type:Measured
Age:14-15
Sample size:7242
Area covered:National
References:Nathalie Guignon (2019, août). En 2017, des adolescents plutôt en meilleure santé physique mais plus souvent en surcharge pondérale. Études et résultats, 1122. Available at: https://drees.solidarites-sante.gouv.fr/publications/etudes-et-resultats/en-2017-des-adolescents-plutot-en-meilleure-sante-physique-mais. Last accessed: 05.05.21.
Cutoffs:IOTF

Children, 2016

Survey type:Measured
Age:7
Sample size:1966
Area covered:National
References:Report on the fourth round of data collection, 2015–2017: WHO European Childhood Obesity Surveillance Initiative (COSI).
Cutoffs:WHO

Children, 2016

Survey type:Measured
Age:8
Sample size:2333
Area covered:National
References:WHO European Childhood Obesity Surveillance Initiative (COSI): report on the fourth round of data collection, 2015–2017. Copenhagen: WHO Regional Office for Europe; 2021. Licence: CC BY-NC-SA 3.0 IGO.
Cutoffs:WHO

Children, 2015

Survey type:Measured
Age:6-17
Sample size:1099
Area covered:National
References:http://invs.santepubliquefrance.fr/beh/2017/13/pdf/2017_13_1.pdf
Cutoffs:IOTF

Children, 2006-2007

Survey type:Measured
Age:3-17
Sample size:1446
Area covered:National
References:Lioret S, Touvier M, Dubuisson C, Dufour A, Calmassi-Tran G, Lafay L, Volatier J-L and Maire B. Trends in child overweight rates and energy intake in French from 1997 - 2007 and soc-econmic status. Obesity. [Epub ahead of print].
Cutoffs:IOTF

Children, 1994

Survey type:Measured
Age:10
Sample size:5407
Area covered:National
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:Boys = 2774 Girls = 2633
Cutoffs:IOTF

Overweight/obesity by age and education

Adults, 2019

Survey type:Self-reported
Area covered:National
References:Eurostat 2019. Available at https://appsso.eurostat.ec.europa.eu/nui/show.do?dataset=hlth_ehis_bm1e&lang=en (last accessed 09.08.21).
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².

Men, 2019

Survey type:Self-reported
Area covered:National
References:Eurostat 2019. Available at https://appsso.eurostat.ec.europa.eu/nui/show.do?dataset=hlth_ehis_bm1e&lang=en (last accessed 09.08.21).
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².

Women, 2019

Survey type:Self-reported
Area covered:National
References:Eurostat 2019. Available at https://appsso.eurostat.ec.europa.eu/nui/show.do?dataset=hlth_ehis_bm1e&lang=en (last accessed 09.08.21).
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².

Men, 2017

Survey type:Self-reported
Area covered:National
References:EUROSTAT Database http://appsso.eurostat.ec.europa.eu/nui/show.do?dataset=ilc_hch10&lang=en (last accessed 25.08.20)
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².

Women, 2017

Survey type:Self-reported
Area covered:National
References:EUROSTAT Database http://appsso.eurostat.ec.europa.eu/nui/show.do?dataset=ilc_hch10&lang=en (last accessed 25.08.20)
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².

Men, 2014

Survey type:Self-reported
Area covered:National
References:Eurostat Database:http://appsso.eurostat.ec.europa.eu/nui/show.do?dataset=hlth_ehis_bm1e&lang=en (last accessed 25.08.20)
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².

Women, 2014

Survey type:Self-reported
Area covered:National
References:Eurostat Database:http://appsso.eurostat.ec.europa.eu/nui/show.do?dataset=hlth_ehis_bm1e&lang=en (last accessed 25.08.20)
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².

Overweight/obesity by education

Men, 2014

Survey type:Self-reported
Age:18+
Sample size:Total sample size in EU = 35100 (Age 18+)
Area covered:National
References:Eurostat Database:http://appsso.eurostat.ec.europa.eu/nui/show.do?dataset=hlth_ehis_bm1e&lang=en (last accessed 9 November 2016)
Notes:Less than primary, primary and lower secondary education (levels 0-2) Upper secondary and post-secondary non-tertiary education (levels 3 and 4) Tertiary education (levels 5-8)
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².

Women, 2014

Survey type:Self-reported
Age:18+
Sample size:Total sample size in EU = 35100 (Age 18+)
Area covered:National
References:Eurostat Database:http://appsso.eurostat.ec.europa.eu/nui/show.do?dataset=hlth_ehis_bm1e&lang=en (last accessed 9 November 2016)
Notes:Less than primary, primary and lower secondary education (levels 0-2) Upper secondary and post-secondary non-tertiary education (levels 3 and 4) Tertiary education (levels 5-8)
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².

Men, 2008

Survey type:Self-reported
Age:18+
Area covered:National
References:EUROSTAT Database http://ec.europa.eu/eurostat/web/health/health-status-determinants/data/database# (last accessed 17th July 2015)
Notes:Definitions are: levels 0-2 = pre-primary, primary and lower secondary education levels 3-4 = upper secondary and post-secondary non-tertiary education levels 5-6 = first and second stage of tertiary education
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².

Women, 2008

Survey type:Self-reported
Age:18+
Area covered:National
References:EUROSTAT Database http://ec.europa.eu/eurostat/web/health/health-status-determinants/data/database# (last accessed 17th July 2015)
Notes:Definitions are: levels 0-2 = pre-primary, primary and lower secondary education levels 3-4 = upper secondary and post-secondary non-tertiary education levels 5-6 = first and second stage of tertiary 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, 2015

Survey type:Measured
Age:6-17
Sample size:1,104
Area covered:National
Notes:< Baccalaureate = no diploma or certificate of primary studies, Bac, BP = general, technological or vocational baccalaureate, professional or technician, BEA, BEC, EIB, BEH, legal capacity, Bac +1 to Bac +3 = 1st cycle university diploma, bac +3, bachelor's degree, BTS, DUT, DEUG, diploma in social or health professions, diploma in nursing, > Bac +3 = 2nd or 3rd cycle diploma university [including medicine, pharmacy, dental], master,doctorate, engineering degree, diploma of a large school.
Definitions:Parental education.
Cutoffs:IOTF

Girls, 2015

Survey type:Measured
Age:6-17
Sample size:1,104
Area covered:National
Notes:< Baccalaureate = no diploma or certificate of primary studies, Bac, BP = general, technological or vocational baccalaureate, professional or technician, BEA, BEC, EIB, BEH, legal capacity, Bac +1 to Bac +3 = 1st cycle university diploma, bac +3, bachelor's degree, BTS, DUT, DEUG, diploma in social or health professions, diploma in nursing, > Bac +3 = 2nd or 3rd cycle diploma university [including medicine, pharmacy, dental], master,doctorate, engineering degree, diploma of a large school.
Definitions:Parental education.
Cutoffs:IOTF

Children, 2006-2007

Survey type:Measured
Age:3-14
Sample size:955
Area covered:National
References:Lioret S, Touvier M, Dubuisson C, Dufour A, Calamassi-Tran G, Lafay L, Volatier JL, Maire B. Trends in child overweight rates and energy intake in France from 1999 to 2007: relationships with socioeconomic status.Obesity (Silver Spring). 2009 May;17(5):1092-100. doi: 10.1038/oby.2008.619. Epub 2009 Jan 15.
Notes:Education level for the head of the household
Cutoffs:Other

Overweight/obesity by age

Adults, 2020

Survey type:Self-reported
Sample size:9598
Area covered:National
References:Fontbonne A, Currie A, Tounian P, Picot MC, Foulatier O, Nedelcu M, Nocca D. Prevalence of Overweight and Obesity in France: The 2020 Obepi-Roche Study by the "Ligue Contre l'Obésité". J Clin Med. 2023 Jan 25;12(3):925. doi: 10.3390/jcm12030925. PMID: 36769573; PMCID: PMC9918095.
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².

Adults, 2019

Survey type:Self-reported
Area covered:National
References:Eurostat 2019. Available at https://appsso.eurostat.ec.europa.eu/nui/show.do?dataset=hlth_ehis_bm1i&lang=en (last accessed 09.08.21).
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².

Adults, 2017

Survey type:Self-reported
Area covered:National
References:EUROSTAT Database http://appsso.eurostat.ec.europa.eu/nui/show.do?dataset=ilc_hch10&lang=en (last accessed 25.08.20)
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².

Adults, 2015

Survey type:Measured
Sample size:2467
Area covered:National
References:http://invs.santepubliquefrance.fr/beh/2017/13/pdf/2017_13_1.pdf
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².

Adults, 2006

Survey type:Self-reported
Sample size:22374
Area covered:National
References:Charles MA, Eschwege E, Basdevant A. Monitoring the Obesity Epidemic in France: The Obepi Surveys 1997-2006. Obesity (2008) 16:2182-2186
Notes:Trend data available for years 1997, 2000 and 2003.
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².

Adults, 2006

Survey type:Measured
Sample size:3115
Area covered:National
References:"Étude nationale nutrition santé ENNS, 2006 Situation nutritionnelle en France en 2006 selon les indicateurs d’objectif et les repères du Programme national nutrition santé (PNNS). Institut de veille sanitaire."
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².

Children, 2015-2017

Survey type:Measured
Sample size:4299
Area covered:National
References:WHO European Childhood Obesity Surveillance Initiative (COSI) Report on the fourth round of data collection, 2015–2017 (2021). Available at: https://www.euro.who.int/en/health-topics/disease-prevention/nutrition/activities/who-european-childhood-obesity-surveillance-initiative-cosi/cosi-publications/who-european-childhood-obesity-surveillance-initiative-cosi-report-on-the-fourth-round-of-data-collection,-20152017-2021. Accessed 19.05.21.
Cutoffs:WHO

Children, 2015

Survey type:Measured
Sample size:1099
Area covered:National
References:http://invs.santepubliquefrance.fr/beh/2017/13/pdf/2017_13_1.pdf
Notes:IOTF Cut-off used
Cutoffs:IOTF

Children, 2006

Survey type:Measured
Sample size:1446
Area covered:National
References:Étude nationale nutrition santé ENNS, 2006 Situation nutritionnelle en France en 2006 selon les indicateurs d’objectif et les repères du Programme national nutrition santé(PNNS). Institut de veille sanitaire.
Cutoffs:IOTF

Overweight/obesity by region

Adults, 2006

Survey type:Self-reported
Age:15+
Sample size:22374
Area covered:National
References:ObÉpi-Roche 2006. 4ème enquête épidémiologique nationalesurl’obésité et le surpoids en France
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².

Boys, 2014-2015

Survey type:Measured
Age:10-11
Sample size:8124
Area covered:National
References:L’état de santé de la population en France RAPPORT 2017. Available at: https://drees.solidarites-sante.gouv.fr/sites/default/files/2021-01/Rapport-ESPF-2017.pdf. Last accessed: 04.05.21.
Cutoffs:IOTF

Overweight/obesity by age and region

Men, 2014

Survey type:Self-reported
Area covered:National
References:Eurostat http://appsso.eurostat.ec.europa.eu/nui/show.do?dataset=hlth_ehis_bm1u&lang=en (last accessed 25.08.20)
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².

Women, 2014

Survey type:Self-reported
Area covered:National
References:Eurostat http://appsso.eurostat.ec.europa.eu/nui/show.do?dataset=hlth_ehis_bm1u&lang=en (last accessed 25.08.20)
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².

Overweight/obesity by age and socio-economic group

Adults, 2019

Survey type:Self-reported
Area covered:National
References:Eurostat 2019. Available at https://appsso.eurostat.ec.europa.eu/nui/show.do?dataset=hlth_ehis_bm1i&lang=en (last accessed 09.08.21).
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².

Men, 2019

Survey type:Self-reported
Area covered:National
References:Eurostat 2019. Available at https://appsso.eurostat.ec.europa.eu/nui/show.do?dataset=hlth_ehis_bm1i&lang=en (last accessed 09.08.21).
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².

Women, 2019

Survey type:Self-reported
Area covered:National
References:Eurostat 2019. Available at https://appsso.eurostat.ec.europa.eu/nui/show.do?dataset=hlth_ehis_bm1i&lang=en (last accessed 09.08.21).
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².

Adults, 2014

Survey type:Self-reported
Area covered:National
References:Eurostat http://appsso.eurostat.ec.europa.eu/nui/show.do?dataset=hlth_ehis_bm1i&lang=en (last accessed 25.08.20)
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².

Men, 2014

Survey type:Self-reported
Area covered:National
References:Eurostat http://appsso.eurostat.ec.europa.eu/nui/show.do?dataset=hlth_ehis_bm1i&lang=en (last accessed 25.08.20)
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².

Women, 2014

Survey type:Self-reported
Area covered:National
References:Eurostat http://appsso.eurostat.ec.europa.eu/nui/show.do?dataset=hlth_ehis_bm1i&lang=en (last accessed 25.08.20)
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².

Overweight/obesity by socio-economic group

Adults, 2020

Survey type:Self-reported
Age:18+
Sample size:9598
Area covered:National
References:Fontbonne A, Currie A, Tounian P, Picot MC, Foulatier O, Nedelcu M, Nocca D. Prevalence of Overweight and Obesity in France: The 2020 Obepi-Roche Study by the "Ligue Contre l'Obésité". J Clin Med. 2023 Jan 25;12(3):925. doi: 10.3390/jcm12030925. PMID: 36769573; PMCID: PMC9918095.
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².

Men, 2014

Survey type:Self-reported
Age:18+
Sample size:Total sample number in EU: 35100 (Age 18+)
Area covered:National
References:EUROSTAT Database: http://appsso.eurostat.ec.europa.eu/nui/show.do?dataset=hlth_ehis_bm1i&lang=en (last accessed 9 November 2016)
Notes:1st Quintile (lowest income), 5th Quintile (highest income) Please note where data = zero, there were insufficient data.
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².

Women, 2014

Survey type:Self-reported
Age:18+
Sample size:Total sample number in EU: 35100 (Age 18+)
Area covered:National
References:EUROSTAT Database: http://appsso.eurostat.ec.europa.eu/nui/show.do?dataset=hlth_ehis_bm1i&lang=en (last accessed 9 November 2016)
Notes:1st Quintile (lowest income), 5th Quintile (highest income) Please note where data = zero, there were insufficient data.
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².

Adults, 2006

Survey type:Self-reported
Age:15+
Sample size:22374
Area covered:National
References:ObÉpi-Roche 2006. 4ème enquête épidémiologique nationalesurl’obésité et le surpoids en France
Notes:Monthly based net household income
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².

Children, 2016-2017

Survey type:Measured
Age:14-15
Sample size:7242
Area covered:National
References:Nathalie Guignon (2019, août). En 2017, des adolescents plutôt en meilleure santé physique mais plus souvent en surcharge pondérale. Études et résultats, 1122. Available at: https://drees.solidarites-sante.gouv.fr/publications/etudes-et-resultats/en-2017-des-adolescents-plutot-en-meilleure-sante-physique-mais. Last accessed: 05.05.21.
Definitions:SIMD groupings as defined by publication of origin.
Cutoffs:IOTF

Children, 2006-2007

Survey type:Measured
Age:3-14
Sample size:922
Area covered:National
References:Lioret S, Touvier M, Dubuisson C, Dufour A, Calamassi-Tran G, Lafay L, Volatier JL, Maire B. Trends in child overweight rates and energy intake in France from 1999 to 2007: relationships with socioeconomic status.Obesity (Silver Spring). 2009 May;17(5):1092-100. doi: 10.1038/oby.2008.619. Epub 2009 Jan 15.
Notes:SES based on occupational status of the head of household.
Cutoffs:Other

Children, 1998-1999

Survey type:Measured
Age:3-14
Sample size:966
Area covered:National
References:Lioret S, Touvier M, Dubuisson C, Dufour A, Calamassi-Tran G, Lafay L, Volatier JL, Maire B. Trends in child overweight rates and energy intake in France from 1999 to 2007: relationships with socioeconomic status.Obesity (Silver Spring). 2009 May;17(5):1092-100. doi: 10.1038/oby.2008.619. Epub 2009 Jan 15.
Notes:SES status based on occupational status of the head of household.
Cutoffs:Other

Overweight/obesity by age and limited activity

Adults, 2014

Survey type:Self-reported
Area covered:National
References:Eurostat 2014 available at https://appsso.eurostat.ec.europa.eu/nui/submitViewTableAction.do (last accessed 06.10.21)
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².

Men, 2014

Survey type:Self-reported
Area covered:National
References:Eurostat 2014 available at https://appsso.eurostat.ec.europa.eu/nui/submitViewTableAction.do (last accessed 06.10.21)
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².

Women, 2014

Survey type:Self-reported
Area covered:National
References:Eurostat 2014 available at https://appsso.eurostat.ec.europa.eu/nui/submitViewTableAction.do (last accessed 06.10.21)
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².

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, 2016

Survey type:Self-reported
Age:11-17
References:Global Health Observatory data repository, World Health Organisation, https://apps.who.int/gho/data/node.main.A893ADO?lang=en (last accessed 16.03.21)
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, 2016

Survey type:Self-reported
Age:11-17
References:Global Health Observatory data repository, World Health Organisation, https://apps.who.int/gho/data/node.main.A893ADO?lang=en (last accessed 16.03.21)
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, 2016

Survey type:Self-reported
Age:11-17
References:Global Health Observatory data repository, World Health Organisation, https://apps.who.int/gho/data/node.main.A893ADO?lang=en (last accessed 16.03.21)
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)

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)

Sugar consumption

Adults, 2016

References:Source: Euromonitor International
Definitions:Sugar consumption (Number of 500g sugar portions/person/month)

Estimated per capita sugar sweetened beverages intake

Adults, 2016

References:Source: Euromonitor International

Prevalence of at least daily carbonated soft drink consumption

Children, 2014

Survey type:Measured
References:World Health Organization. (2017). Adolescent obesity and related behaviours: Trends and inequalities in the who european region, 2002-2014: observations from the Health Behavior in School-aged Children (HBSC) WHO collaborative cross-national study (J. Inchley, D. Currie, J. Jewel, J. Breda, & V. Barnekow, Eds.). World Health Organization. Sourced from Food Systems Dashboard http://www.foodsystemsdashboard.org
Notes:15-year-old adolescents
Definitions:Prevalence of at least daily carbonated soft drink consumption (% of at least daily carbonated soft drink consumption)

Prevalence of confectionery consumption

Adults, 2016

References:Source: Euromonitor International
Definitions:Prevalence of confectionery consumption (Number of 50g confectionery portions/person/month)

Prevalence of sweet/savoury snack consumption

Adults, 2016

References:Source: Euromonitor International
Definitions:Prevalence of sweet/savoury snack consumption (Number of 35g sweet/savoury snack portions/person/month)

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)

Prevalence of less than daily fruit consumption

Children, 2014

Survey type:Measured
References:Global School-based Student Health Surveys. Beal et al (2019). Global Patterns of Adolescent Fruit, Vegetable, Carbonated Soft Drink, and Fast-food consumption: A meta-analysis of global school-based student health surveys. Food and Nutrition Bulletin. https://doi.org/10.1177/0379572119848287. Sourced from Food Systems Dashboard http://www.foodsystemsdashboard.org/food-system
Definitions:Prevalence of less-than-daily fruit consumption (% less-than-daily fruit consumption)

Prevalence of less than daily vegetable consumption

Children, 2014

Survey type:Measured
Age:12-17
References:Beal et al. (2019). Global Patterns of Adolescent Fruit, Vegetable, Carbonated Soft Drink, and Fast-food consumption: A meta-analysis of global school-based student health surveys. Food and Nutrition Bulletin. https://doi.org/10.1177/0379572119848287 sourced from Food Systems Dashboard http://www.foodsystemsdashboard.org/food-system
Definitions:Prevalence of less-than-daily vegetable consumption (% less-than-daily vegetable consumption)

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, 2020

Age:20+
Area covered:National
References:Ferlay J, Ervik M, Lam F, Colombet M, Mery L, Piñeros M, Znaor A, Soerjomataram I, Bray F (2020). Global Cancer Observatory: Cancer Today. Lyon, France: International Agency for Research on Cancer. Available from: https://gco.iarc.fr/today, accessed 10.01.2137
Definitions:Age-standardized indicence rates per 100 000

Women, 2020

Age:20+
Area covered:National
References:Ferlay J, Ervik M, Lam F, Colombet M, Mery L, Piñeros M, Znaor A, Soerjomataram I, Bray F (2020). Global Cancer Observatory: Cancer Today. Lyon, France: International Agency for Research on Cancer. Available from: https://gco.iarc.fr/today, accessed 10.01.2137
Definitions:Age-standardized indicence rates per 100 000

Breast cancer

Women, 2020

Age:20+
Area covered:National
References:Ferlay J, Ervik M, Lam F, Colombet M, Mery L, Piñeros M, Znaor A, Soerjomataram I, Bray F (2020). Global Cancer Observatory: Cancer Today. Lyon, France: International Agency for Research on Cancer. Available from: https://gco.iarc.fr/today, accessed 10.01.2137
Definitions:Age-standardized indicence rates per 100 000

Colorectal cancer

Men, 2020

Age:20+
Area covered:National
References:Ferlay J, Ervik M, Lam F, Colombet M, Mery L, Piñeros M, Znaor A, Soerjomataram I, Bray F (2020). Global Cancer Observatory: Cancer Today. Lyon, France: International Agency for Research on Cancer. Available from: https://gco.iarc.fr/today, accessed 10.01.2137
Definitions:Age-standardized indicence rates per 100 000

Women, 2020

Age:20+
Area covered:National
References:Ferlay J, Ervik M, Lam F, Colombet M, Mery L, Piñeros M, Znaor A, Soerjomataram I, Bray F (2020). Global Cancer Observatory: Cancer Today. Lyon, France: International Agency for Research on Cancer. Available from: https://gco.iarc.fr/today, accessed 10.01.2137
Definitions:Age-standardized indicence rates per 100 000

Pancreatic cancer

Men, 2020

Age:20+
Area covered:National
References:Ferlay J, Ervik M, Lam F, Colombet M, Mery L, Piñeros M, Znaor A, Soerjomataram I, Bray F (2020). Global Cancer Observatory: Cancer Today. Lyon, France: International Agency for Research on Cancer. Available from: https://gco.iarc.fr/today, accessed 10.01.2137
Definitions:Age-standardized indicence rates per 100 000

Women, 2020

Age:20+
Area covered:National
References:Ferlay J, Ervik M, Lam F, Colombet M, Mery L, Piñeros M, Znaor A, Soerjomataram I, Bray F (2020). Global Cancer Observatory: Cancer Today. Lyon, France: International Agency for Research on Cancer. Available from: https://gco.iarc.fr/today, accessed 10.01.2137
Definitions:Age-standardized indicence rates per 100 000

Gallbladder cancer

Men, 2020

Age:20+
Area covered:National
References:Ferlay J, Ervik M, Lam F, Colombet M, Mery L, Piñeros M, Znaor A, Soerjomataram I, Bray F (2020). Global Cancer Observatory: Cancer Today. Lyon, France: International Agency for Research on Cancer. Available from: https://gco.iarc.fr/today, accessed 10.01.2137
Definitions:Age-standardized indicence rates per 100 000

Women, 2020

Age:20+
Area covered:National
References:Ferlay J, Ervik M, Lam F, Colombet M, Mery L, Piñeros M, Znaor A, Soerjomataram I, Bray F (2020). Global Cancer Observatory: Cancer Today. Lyon, France: International Agency for Research on Cancer. Available from: https://gco.iarc.fr/today, accessed 10.01.2137
Definitions:Age-standardized indicence rates per 100 000

Kidney cancer

Men, 2020

Age:20+
Area covered:National
References:Ferlay J, Ervik M, Lam F, Colombet M, Mery L, Piñeros M, Znaor A, Soerjomataram I, Bray F (2020). Global Cancer Observatory: Cancer Today. Lyon, France: International Agency for Research on Cancer. Available from: https://gco.iarc.fr/today, accessed 10.01.2137
Definitions:Age-standardized indicence rates per 100 000

Women, 2020

Age:20+
Area covered:National
References:Ferlay J, Ervik M, Lam F, Colombet M, Mery L, Piñeros M, Znaor A, Soerjomataram I, Bray F (2020). Global Cancer Observatory: Cancer Today. Lyon, France: International Agency for Research on Cancer. Available from: https://gco.iarc.fr/today, accessed 10.01.2137
Definitions:Age-standardized indicence rates per 100 000

Cancer of the uterus

Women, 2020

Age:20+
Area covered:National
References:Ferlay J, Ervik M, Lam F, Colombet M, Mery L, Piñeros M, Znaor A, Soerjomataram I, Bray F (2020). Global Cancer Observatory: Cancer Today. Lyon, France: International Agency for Research on Cancer. Available from: https://gco.iarc.fr/today, accessed 10.01.2137
Definitions:Age-standardized indicence rates 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

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

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, 2021

Age:20-79
Area covered:National
References:Reproduced with kind permission International Diabetes Federation.  IDF Diabetes Atlas, 10th edn. Brussels, Belgium:International Diabetes Federation, 2021. http://www.diabetesatlas.org
Definitions:Age-adjusted comparative prevalence of diabetes, %

Adults, 2019

Age:20-79
References:Reproduced with kind permission International Diabetes Federation. IDF Diabetes Atlas, 9th edn. Brussels,Belgium: 2019. Available at: https://www.diabetesatlas.org
Definitions:Diabetes age-adjusted comparative 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 (%).

Economic impact of overweight and obesity

Country comparisons

You can choose to compare this country’s data with the data for up to four other countries.

Policies, Interventions and Actions

Towards sustainable food: A major health, social, territorial and environmental issue for France

Government report outline strategies for sustainable food. Both a short 20 point brief and full report are available.

Categories (partial):Evidence of Nutritional or Health Strategy/ Guidelines/Policy/Action plan
Year(s):2020 (ongoing)
Target age group:Adults and children
Organisation:Government
Find out more:www.senat.fr
Linked document:Download linked document
References:Vers une alimentation durable : Un enjeu sanitaire, social, territorial et environnemental majeur pour la France Rapport d'information de Mme Françoise CARTRON et M. Jean-Luc FICHET, fait au nom de la délégation sénatoriale à la prospective n° 476 (2019-2020) - 28 mai 2020

2019 Recommendations for eating, physical activity and physical inactivity for adults

Recommendations for adults on diet and physical activity (& inactivity), taking into consideration the population's knowledge, behaviour and beliefs.

Categories:Evidence of Nutritional or Health Strategy/ Guidelines/Policy/Action plan
Evidence of Physical Activity Guidelines/Policy
Year(s):2019 (ongoing)
Target age group:Adults
Organisation:Sante Publique France
Find out more:invs.santepubliquefrance.fr
Linked document:Download linked document
References:Sante Publique France. 2019. Recommandations relatives à l’alimentation, à l’activité physique et à la sédentarité pour les adultes. Available from: http://invs.santepubliquefrance.fr/Publications-et-outils/Rapports-et-syntheses/Maladies-chroniques-et-traumatismes/2019/Recommandations-relatives-a-l-alimentation-a-l-activite-physique-et-a-la-sedentarite-pour-les-adultes. [Last accessed 30 January 2019]. _x000D__x000D_ _x000D__x000D_ [PDF in French].

2019 Obesity care roadmap

Roadmap which aims to aims to structure and implement coordinated and graded health care programs that are suitable for those who are obese or at risk of becoming obese. particularly to reduce inequalities of access to care and improve the quality of care.

Categories:Evidence of National Obesity Strategy/Policy or Action plan
Year(s):2019 (ongoing)
Target age group:Adults and children
Organisation:Ministry of solidarity and Health
Find out more:solidarites-sante.gouv.fr
Linked document:Download linked document
References:Ministry of solidarity and Health. Prevent and manage obesity. Available from: https://solidarites-sante.gouv.fr/systeme-de-sante-et-medico-social/strategie-nationale-de-sante/priorite-prevention-rester-en-bonne-sante-tout-au-long-de-sa-vie-11031/priorite-prevention-les-mesures-phares-detaillees/article/prevenir-et-prendre-en-charge-de-l-obesite [Accessed 31 July 2019].

2019-2023 National Nutrition Strategy

National nutrition strategy with monitoring committee.

Categories:Evidence of Nutritional or Health Strategy/ Guidelines/Policy/Action plan
Year(s):2019-2023
Target age group:Adults and children
Organisation:Minsitry of Health
Find out more:solidarites-sante.gouv.fr
Linked document:Download linked document
References:PROGRAMME NATIONAL NUTRITION SANTÉ 2019-2023. Ministre des Solidarités et de la Santé.

Annex III to Regulation (EC) No 1925/2006 of the European Parliament and of the Council as regards trans fat, other than trans fat naturally occurring in fat of animal origin

Measures to limit or virtually eliminate industrially-produced trans fatty acids in food intended for the final consumer and/or for supply to retail. Adopted by The European Commission from April 2019. (Available in multiple languages)

Categories:Evidence of Marketing Guidelines/Policy
Year(s):2019 (ongoing)
Target age group:Adults and children
Organisation:The European Commission
Linked document:Download linked document
References:Information provided with kind permission of WHO Global database on the Implementation of Nutrition Action (GINA): https://extranet.who.int/nutrition/gina/en/node/36162 (last accessed 12.07.22)

Stay healthy throughout your life 2019

Focusing on nutrition and exercise.

Categories:Evidence of Nutritional or Health Strategy/ Guidelines/Policy/Action plan
Evidence of Physical Activity Guidelines/Policy
Evidence of NCD strategy
Year(s):2019 (ongoing)
Target age group:Adults and children
Organisation:Comité interministériel pour la Santé
Find out more:www.gouvernement.fr
Linked document:Download linked document
References:Comité interministériel pour la Santé. Stay healthy throughout your life 2019. available from: https://www.gouvernement.fr/sites/default/files/document/document/2019/03/dossier_de_presse_-_comite_interministeriel_pour_la_sante_-_25.03.2019.pdf [Accessed 31 July 2019].

The French National Nutrition and Health Program

In France, the recommendations on diet and physical activity are elaborated and disseminated by the public health authorities since the implementation of the first National Nutrition and Health Program (PNNS) in 2001. The first official FBDGs were published in 2002 for adults, in 2004 for children, in 2006 for the elderly, and in 2008 for pregnant women. The revised version of the guidelines for adults was published in 2019. The new guidelines for children from birth to 17 years old and adolescents will be published in 2021. Other revised guidelines for elderly and pregnant women will be published in 2022.

Categories:Evidence of Nutritional or Health Strategy/ Guidelines/Policy/Action plan
Year(s):2019-2021
Target age group:Adults and children
Organisation:Ministry of Health
References:http://www.fao.org/nutrition/education/food-dietary-guidelines/regions/countries/france/en/

The 2018-2022 National Health Strategy

National strategy aiming to reduce chronic diseases and their consequences, ensure the health system is adapting to demographic, epidemiological and societal challenges amongst other goals.

Categories:Evidence of NCD strategy
Year(s):2018-2022
Target age group:Adults and children
Organisation:MINISTARE DES SOLIDARITAS ET DE LA SANTA
Find out more:solidarites-sante.gouv.fr
Linked document:Download linked document
References:MINISTÈRE DES SOLIDARITÉS ET DE LA SANTÉ. 2017. Stratégie nationale de santé 2018-2022. Available from: https://solidarites-sante.gouv.fr/IMG/pdf/dossier_sns_2017_vdefpost-consult.pdf. [Last Accessed 20 January 2019]._x000D__x000D_ _x000D__x000D_ [Document in French].

Update on Soda Tax

The new tax, which is part of the government's 2018 Social Security budget, is an update of the initial "soda tax" that was brought in in 2013 whereby fizzy drinks with added sugar was taxed at €7.5 euros a hectolitre (equal to 100 litres). A sliding scale tax will be introduced in 2018 for drinks that contain 1g of sugar per 100ml. It will rise to the point where the most sugary drinks will be taxed at €20 a hectolitre for drinks that contain more than 11g of sugar per 100ml.

Categories:Taxation/Subsidies on Food or Beverages or law relating to public health
Year(s):2018 (ongoing)
Target age group:Adults and children
Organisation:Government
Find out more:www.thelocal.fr
References:https://www.thelocal.fr/20171027/france-tackles-obesity-by-hiking-soda-tax-on-sugary-drinks

Ban on unlimited sugary drink refills

The Order of 18 January 2017 prohibits the provision of unlimited drinks, free or for a fixed price, with the addition of sugars or artificial sweeteners. Restaurants and other spaces catering to the public in France have been banned from offering unlimited sugary drinks in an effort to reduce obesity.

Categories:Taxation/Subsidies on Food or Beverages or law relating to public health
Year(s):2017 (ongoing)
Target age group:Adults and children
Organisation:Government
Find out more:www.legifrance.gouv.fr

Nutri-score Labelling

The French government signed a decree backing the voluntary adoption of the 'Nutri-Score' front-of-pack nutritional labelling scheme (31 October 2017).

Categories:Labelling Regulation/Guidelines
Year(s):2017 (ongoing)
Target age group:Adults and children
Organisation:Government
Find out more:www.foodnavigator.com
References:https://www.foodnavigator.com/Article/2017/10/31/Nutri-Score-labelling-comes-into-force-in-France?utm_source=copyright&utm_medium=OnSite&utm_campaign=copyright

Obesity Prevention and Health Promotion 2017-2018

Categories (partial):Non-national obesity strategies
Year(s):2017-2018
Target age group:Adults and children
Organisation:Haut Counseil pour l'avenir de l'assurance maladie
Find out more:www.strategie.gouv.fr
Linked document:Download linked document
References:Pravention et promotion de la sante. Available from: https://www.strategie.gouv.fr/sites/strategie.gouv.fr/files/atoms/files/prevention-avis-hcaam-12-02-2019.pdf. [Accessed 31 July 2019].

School Fruit, Vegetables and Milk Scheme

"Applicable since 1 August 2017, the EU school fruit, vegetables and milk scheme combines two previous schemes (the school fruit and vegetables scheme and the school milk scheme) under a single legal framework for more efficiency and an enhanced focus on health and educational. The scheme supports the distribution of products, educational measures and information measures. The scheme supports the distribution of fruit, vegetables, milk and certain milk products to schoolchildren, from nursery to secondary school. EU countries approve a list of products (in collaboration with their health and nutrition authorities) which will help achieve the schemes objective of helping children to follow a healthy diet. Priority is for fresh fruit and vegetables and for plain milk. In order to support a varied diet and/or specific nutritional needs, EU countries may also make processed fruit and vegetables such as juices and soups and certain milk products such as yoghurt and cheese, available. Additionally, under stricter conditions, milk-based drinks may be included." - EU Commission

Categories:Evidence of Nutritional or Health Strategy/ Guidelines/Policy/Action plan
Year(s):2017 (ongoing)
Organisation:European Commission
Find out more:ec.europa.eu
References:https://ec.europa.eu/info/food-farming-fisheries/key-policies/common-agricultural-policy/market-measures/school-fruit-vegetables-and-milk-scheme/school-scheme-explained_en

The Public Health Act

There is a ban on unlimited offers of sweetened beverages for free or at a fixed price in schools, public restaurants and any facility used to teach, accommodate or receive children under the age of 18.

Categories:Evidence of Nutritional or Health Strategy/ Guidelines/Policy/Action plan
Year(s):2017 (ongoing)
Target age group:Children
Organisation:French Government
Find out more:Unable to locate further details if you have access please email us at obesity@worldobesity.org

ePPOP- Electronic-personalized program for obesity during pregnancy

ePPOP is an electronic-personalised lifestyle intervention combining nutritional, behavioural and physical activity counselling during pregnancy, to reduce instrumental delivery and improve health of obese pregnant women and their babies.

Categories (partial):Evidence of Community Interventions/Campaign
Year(s):2016 (ongoing)
Target age group:Adults
Organisation:College National des Gynacologues et Obstatriciens Fransais (CNGOF) and 'Be Patient'
Find out more:www.cngof.fr

GNPR 2016-2017: Infant and young child nutrition - Breastfeeding promotion and/or counselling

This programme was reported by countries for the 2nd WHO Global Nutrition Policy Review 2016-2017 module on actions related to infant and young child nutrition. Information provided by WHO GINA Programme.

Categories:Evidence of Breastfeeding promotion or related activity
Year(s):2016 (ongoing)
Target age group:Children
Find out more:extranet.who.int
References:Information provided with kind permission of WHO Global database on the Implementation of Nutrition Action (GINA): https://extranet.who.int/nutrition/gina/en

The European Food and Nutrition Action Plan 2015-2020

The aim on this action plan is to significantly reduce the burden of preventable diet-related non-communicable diseases, obesity and all other forms of malnutrition that are still prevalent in the WHO European Region.

Categories (partial):Transnational Obesity Strategies/Policy or Action Plan
Evidence of NCD strategy
Year(s):2015-2020
Target age group:Adults and children
Organisation:World Health Organisation
Linked document:Download linked document

Charter for the Promotion of Healthy Diets and Physical Activity during TV Programmes and Advertising (updated version)

Food charter that aims to promote a healthy diet on television. Note that the charter was updated in 2013 and applicable from 1 Jan 2014.

Categories:Evidence of Marketing Guidelines/Policy
Year(s):2014 (ongoing)
Target age group:Adults and children
Organisation:Ministry of Health and Ministry of Culture and Communication
Find out more:www.culturecommunication.gouv.fr
Linked document:Download linked document
References:Ministry of Health and Ministry of Culture and Communication. http://www.culturecommunication.gouv.fr/ (last accessed 11.8.15)

European Union (EU) Action Plan on Childhood Obesity 2014-2020

EU Action plan. To contribute to halting the rise in overweight and obesity in children and young people (0-18 years) by 2020

Categories:Transnational Obesity Strategies/Policy or Action Plan
Year(s):2014-2020
Target age group:Children
Organisation:Ministry of Health
Find out more:ec.europa.eu
Linked document:Download linked document
References:EU Action Plan on Childhood Table of contents [Internet]. Available from: https://ec.europa.eu/health/sites/health/files/nutrition_physical_activity/docs/childhoodobesity_actionplan_2014_2020_en.pdf &amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;zwnj;

EU Regulation 1169/2011

Passed in 2011, EU Regulation 1169/2011 on the Provision of Food Information to Consumers requires a list of the nutrient content of most pre-packaged food to be provided on the back of the pack from October 2011.

Categories:Labelling Regulation/Guidelines
Year(s):2011 (ongoing)
Target age group:Adults and children
Organisation:European Parliament and the Council of the European Union
Find out more:eur-lex.europa.eu
References:Information provided with kind permission of WHO Global database on the Implementation of Nutrition Action (GINA): https://extranet.who.int/nutrition/gina/en/node/22917 (last accessed 28.06.22)

Evaluation of the EU school milk and fruit scheme

European Court of Auditors (2011) Are the school milk and school fruit schemes effective? Special Report No 10. Publications Office of the European Union, Luxembourg.

Categories:Health Effectiveness Reviews (obesity related)
Year(s):2011 (ongoing)
Target age group:Children
Organisation:EUROPEAN COURT OF AUDITORS
Linked document:Download linked document
References:Information provided with kind permission of World Cancer Research Fund International from their NOURISHING framework www.wcrf.org/NOURISHING

French National Nutrition and Health Program 2011-2015 (PNNS)

The PNNS involves the ministries in charge of national education, sports, consumer affairs, social cohesion, and higher education and research to promote healthy eating as part of the nutritional prevention.

Categories (partial):Evidence of Nutritional or Health Strategy/ Guidelines/Policy/Action plan
Year(s):2011-2015
Target age group:Adults and children
Organisation:Ministry of Health
Find out more:www.sante.gouv.fr
Linked document:Download linked document

Promotion of physical activity in the Youth (Promouvoir lâ activite physique des jeunes)

Categories:Evidence of Physical Activity Guidelines/Policy
Year(s):2011 (ongoing)
Target age group:Children
Organisation:National Institute for Prevention and Health Education
Find out more:www.inpes.sante.fr
Linked document:Download linked document

School meal standards Decree No. 2011-1227

Decree No. 2011-1227 set mandatory nutritional standards on schools meals and nutrient content regulations in France.

Categories:Evidence of Nutritional or Health Strategy/ Guidelines/Policy/Action plan
Evidence of School Food Regulations
Year(s):2011 (ongoing)
Target age group:Children
Organisation:French Government
References:https://ec.europa.eu/jrc/sites/default/files/jrc-school-food-policy-factsheet-france_en.pdf

TV advertising of food or drink of low nutiritonal value must be accompanied by a speicific health education statement approved by the National Institute of Health Education

Categories:Industry/Government regulations - voluntary /pledges
Year(s):2007 (ongoing)
Target age group:Adults and children
Organisation:National Institute of Health Education
Linked document:Download linked document

EU health and nutrient claims regulation

Regulation nº 1924/2006 establishes EU-wide rules on the use of specified health and nutrient claims. The European Commission approves claims provided they are based on scientific evidence and accessible consumers. The European Food Safety Authority is responsible for evaluating the scientific evidence supporting health claims. Nutrition claims may only be used on food defined as "healthy" by a nutrient profile.

Categories:Labelling Regulation/Guidelines
Year(s):2006 (ongoing)
Target age group:Adults and children
Organisation:European Commission
Linked document:Download linked document
References:https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/en/ALL/?uri=CELEX%3A32006R1924

Second national nutrition and health programme 2006-2010 (PNNS)

The main role of the PNNS is to encourage various public and private sector players to act, by providing cohesive guidelines, references, government-designed tools and a framework for permanent dialogue.

Categories (partial):Evidence of Nutritional or Health Strategy/ Guidelines/Policy/Action plan
Year(s):2006-2010
Target age group:Adults and children
Organisation:Ministry of Health, Youth and Sports
Find out more:www.sante-sports.gouv.fr
Linked document:Download linked document
References:Information collated as part of an earlier project between 2008-2011. See http://www.worldobesity.org/what-we-do/policy-prevention/projects/marketing-children/ project/

CSOS Multi-disciplinary approach to tackling overweight and obesity

The CSOS team utilise a multi-disciplinary approach to tackling obesity. They combine the use of a clinical psychologist, a state-certified dietitian, a sports educator and a motivational interview coordinator.

Categories:Evidence of Multidisciplinary Intervention
Year(s):2004 (ongoing)
Target age group:Adults and children
Organisation:CSOS
Find out more:www.csos.nc
Linked document:Download linked document
References:Available from: https://www.csos.nc/2017/10/05/approche-multidisciplinaire-seul-traitement-efficace-surpoids-lobesite/ [accessed August 2019].

Eat and Move for Health (La sante vient en mangeant et en bougeant)

Guidelines on nutrition and physical activity - document in French

Categories:Evidence of Nutritional or Health Strategy/ Guidelines/Policy/Action plan
Evidence of Physical Activity Guidelines/Policy
Year(s):2004 (ongoing)
Target age group:Children
Organisation:Institut National de Prevention ed d'Education pour la Santé (INPES), Ministère de la Santé
Linked document:Download linked document

Law regarding the public health policy (Loi no 2004-806 du 9 août 2004 relative à la politique de santé publique)

The law of August 9, 2004, marked a new era with a step in a new direction for_x000D__x000D_ defining a process to develop health policy in France. The five-year law provided a framework_x000D__x000D_ to formalize public health objectives. Health policy was articulated around four ambitions: improvement of_x000D__x000D_ health outcomes, reduction of inequalities, efficiency of the health system, and the_x000D__x000D_ advancement of health democracy.

Categories:Taxation/Subsidies on Food or Beverages or law relating to public health
Year(s):2004 (ongoing)
Target age group:Adults and children
Organisation:Journal Officiel De La Republique Francaise
Find out more:bdoc.ofdt.fr
Linked document:Download linked document
References:Information provided with kind permission of HEPA Europe (European network for the promotion of health-enhancing physical activity): http://www.euro.who.int/en/health-topics/disease-prevention/physical-activity/activities/hepa-europe

The Public Health Act of 2004

"The Public Health Act of 2004, through the implementation of the Second National Nutrition and Health Programme, comprises two articles concerning food advertisements and the banning of food vending machines in schools. The first article stipulates that television and radio commercials for beverages with added sugar, salt or artificial sweeteners and manufactured food products must contain the following health messages: “For the sake of your health, do not eat foods that contain too much fat, sugar or salt”; “For the sake of your health, eat at least five servings of fruit and vegetables every day”; “For the sake of your health, avoid eating snacks”; and “For the sake of your health, do regular physical exercise”. The same obligation applies to the promotion of these beverages and food products (however, advertisers can avoid this by paying a tax equal to 1.5% of the annual amount they pay for advertising these types of product)" - WHO

Categories:Evidence of Marketing Guidelines/Policy
Year(s):2004 (ongoing)
References:https://www.euro.who.int/__data/assets/pdf_file/0006/155436/e96047.pdf

EPODE (Together Let’s Prevent Childhood Obesity)

"EPODE (Together Let’s Prevent Childhood Obesity) is a methodology designed to involve all relevant local stakeholders in an integrated and concrete prevention program aimed at facilitating the adoption of healthier lifestyles in the everyday life. The programmes developed on the basis of the EPODE framework are long term, aimed at changing the environment and thereby the unhealthy behaviours. The approach is ‘positive, concrete and stepwise’ learning process with no stigmatization of any culture, food habits, overweight and obesity. The first EPODE programme was started in France in the 2003 and EPODE now extends to nearly 1,8 million inhabitants in 167 French cities, 20 cities in Spain and 8 cities in Belgium."

Categories:Evidence of Community Interventions/Campaign
Year(s):2003 (ongoing)
Target age group:Children
Find out more:www.epode.fr
References:https://epha.org/epode-together-lets-prevent-childhood-obesity/

Multidisciplinary approach to treat childhood obesity based on multicomponent lifestyle interventions and family-based actions

Study assessing the short term and long term impact of paediatric obesity care management offered by nine French regional health networks which is based on multi-component lifestyle interventions.

Categories:Evidence of Multidisciplinary Intervention
Categories (partial):Evidence of National Obesity Strategy/Policy or Action plan
Year(s):2003-2015
Target age group:Children
Organisation:Carriere et al
Find out more:www.reppop-bfc.com
Linked document:Download linked document
References:Carriere et al 2019. Short?term and long?term positive outcomes of the multidisciplinary care implemented by the French health networks for the prevention and care of paediatric overweight_x000D__x000D_ and obesity. Paediatric Obesity. DOI: 10.1111/ijpo.12522

Health comes through eating (La sante vient en mangeant)

Nutrition programme - see document in French

Categories (partial):Evidence of Nutritional or Health Strategy/ Guidelines/Policy/Action plan
Year(s):2002 (ongoing)
Target age group:Adults and children
Organisation:Institut National de Prevention ed d'Education pour la Santé (INPES), Ministère de la Santé
Linked document:Download linked document
References:La Sante Vient en mangeant le Guide Alimentaire Pour Tous.

ICAPS (Intervention Centred on Adolescents' Physical activity and Sedentary behaviour)

"The ‘Intervention centred on adolescents' physical activity and sedentary behaviour’ (ICAPS) was designed to reduce weight gain and, as an underlying objective, cardiovascular risk in adolescents of eastern France. It is aimed at improving lifelong PA patterns by implementing a programme that motivates and enables adolescents to use opportunities for PA inside and outside school, and also by providing social support and an environment that encourage them towards PA during everyday life and leisure."

Categories:Evidence of Community Interventions/Campaign
Year(s):2002 (ongoing)
Target age group:Children
References:https://www.nature.com/articles/0802812

National programme for nutrition and health 2001-2005 (PNNS)

A programme containing 9 nutritional objectives to improve the health of the general population.

Categories (partial):Evidence of Nutritional or Health Strategy/ Guidelines/Policy/Action plan
Year(s):2001-2005
Target age group:Adults and children
Organisation:Ministry of Health
Find out more:www.medecine-nutrition.org
Linked document:Download linked document
References:Information collated as part of an earlier project between 2008-2011. See http://www.worldobesity.org/what-we-do/policy-prevention/projects/marketing-children/ project/

Active cities

Aims to create a favourable environment for good nutrition in municipalities.

Categories:Evidence of Community Interventions/Campaign
Target age group:Adults and children
Organisation:Programme National Nutrition Sante; National Programme for Healthy Nutrition
Find out more:www.reseauvillesactivespnns.fr

GNPR 2016-17 (q7) Breastfeeeding promotion and/or counselling

WHO Global Nutrition Policy Review 2016-2017 reported the evidence of breastfeeding promotion and/or counselling (q7)

Categories:Evidence of Breastfeeding promotion or related activity
Target age group:Adults
Organisation:Ministry of Health (information provided by the GINA progam)
Find out more:extranet.who.int
References:Information provided with kind permission of WHO Global database on the Implementation of Nutrition Action (GINA): https://extranet.who.int/nutrition/gina/en

Multidisciplinary educational healthcare circuit for bariatric surgery in France.

Educational healthcare circuit for bariatric surgery which offers a multidisciplinary approach based on medical, psychological and dietetic expertise to combat obesity proves to be a feasibile alternative to usual care in France.

Categories:Evidence of Multidisciplinary Intervention
Target age group:Adults and children
Organisation:Duenas et al 2019
Find out more:www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
Linked document:Download linked document
References:Duenas et al 2019. Cost-effectiveness of an educational healthcare circuit for bariatric surgery in France. Public Health.172, pp. 43-51.

NCD targets for France

• Reduce obesity by 15% and stabilise overweight in adults by 2023 • Reduce overweight and obesity in children and teenagers by 20% by 2023

Categories:Evidence of NCD strategy
Target age group:Adults and children
References:https://extranet.who.int/ncdccs/Data/FRA_France_NCD_targets_2019.pdf

The effect of the French vending machine ban on school snacking and sugar intake

Capacci S et al. (2018) Breaking habits: the effect of the french vending machine ban on school snacking and sugar intakes. Journal of Policy Analysis and Management, 27(1), 88-111

Categories:Health Effectiveness Reviews (obesity related)
Find out more:pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
References:Information provided with kind permission of World Cancer Research Fund International from their NOURISHING framework www.wcrf.org/NOURISHING

The Incidence of Soft-Drink Taxes on Consumer Prices and Welfare: Evidence from the French ”Soda Tax”.

Etilé F et al. (2018) The Incidence of Soft-Drink Taxes on Consumer Prices and Welfare: Evidence from the French ”Soda Tax”. PSE Working Papers n°2018–24.

Categories:Health Effectiveness Reviews (obesity related)
Find out more:www.researchgate.net
References:Information provided with kind permission of World Cancer Research Fund International from their NOURISHING framework www.wcrf.org/NOURISHING

No actions could be found for the above criteria.

Contextual factors

Disclaimer: These contextual factors should be interpreted with care. Results are updated as regularly as possible and use very specific criteria. The criteria used and full definitions are available for download at the bottom of this page.

Tap on a tick to find out more about policies influencing this factor.

Labelling

Is there mandatory nutrition labelling?Present
Front-of-package labelling?Present-(voluntary)
Back-of-pack nutrition declaration?Present
Color coding?Present-(voluntary)
Warning label?Absent

Regulation and marketing

Are there fiscal policies on unhealthy products?Present
Tax on unhealthy foods?Absent
Tax on unhealthy drinks?Present
Are there fiscal policies on healthy products?Absent
Subsidy on fruits?Absent
Subsidy on vegetables?Absent
Subsidy on other healthy products?Absent
Mandatory limit or ban of trans fat (all settings)?Present
Mandatory limit of trans fats in place (all settings)? Present
Ban on trans-fats or phos in place (all settings)? Absent
Are there any mandatory policies/marketing restrictions on the promotion of unhealthy food/drinks to children?Present
Mandatory restriction on broadcast media?Present
Mandatory restriction on non-broadcast media?Absent
Voluntary policies/marketing restrictions on the promotion of unhealthy food/drinks to children?Absent
Are there mandatory standards for food in schools?Present
Are there any mandatory nutrient limits in any manufactured food products?Absent
Nutrition standards for public sector procurement?Absent

Political will and support

National obesity strategy or nutrition and physical activity national strategy?Present
National obesity strategy?Present
National childhood obesity strategy?Present
Comprehensive nutrition strategy?Present
Comprehensive physical activity strategy?Present
Evidence-based dietary guidelines and/or RDAs?Present
National target(s) on reducing obesity?Present
Guidelines/policy on obesity treatment?Incoming
Promotion of breastfeeding?Present

Monitoring and surveillance

Monitoring of the prevalence and incidence for the main obesity-related NCDs and risk factors?Present
Within 5 years?Present

Governance and resource

Multi-sectoral national co-ordination mechanism for obesity or nutrition (including obesity)?Present

Key

Present
Present (voluntary)
Incoming
Absent
Unknown

Last updated June 26, 2023

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Download contextual factors as a PDF Contextual factors definitions

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