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

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, 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, 2014-2015

Survey type:Self-reported
Age:15+
Sample size:24824
Area covered:National
References:Schienkiewitz, A, et al. “Overweight and Obesity among Adults in Germany.” Journal of Health Monitoring, vol. 2, no. 2, 2017, edoc.rki.de/bitstream/handle/176904/2663/22n7R61x8fzk.pdf?sequence=1&isAllowed=y, DOI 10.17886/RKI-GBE-2017-038. Accessed 8 Apr. 2021.
Notes:Data is from the GEDA 2014/2015-EHIS 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, 2008-2011

Survey type:Measured
Age:18-79
Sample size:7116
Area covered:National
References:G.B.M. Mensink. A. Schienkiewitz. M. Haftenberger. T. Lampert. T. Ziese. C. Scheidt-Nave. Overweight and obesity in Germany. Results of the German Health Interview and Examination Survey for Adults (DEGS1)Bundesgesundheitsbl 2013. DOI 10.1007/s00103-012-1656-3 (English supplement available online http://link.springer.com/article/10.1007%2Fs00103-012-1656-3 last accessed 28th May 2013)
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, 2005-2007

Survey type:Measured
Age:18-80
Sample size:13207
Area covered:National
References:Federal Ministry of Food, Agriculture and Consumer Protection and Federal Research Institute of Nutrition and Food, Germany, Report of Results 2008 (http://www.bmelv.de/cln_045/nn_1196770/sharedDocs/downloads/03-Ernaehrung/NVS2/NVS_Ergebnisbericht,templateId=raw,property=publicationFile.pdf/NVS_Ergebnisbericht.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, 2002

Survey type:Measured
Age:25+
Sample size:3807
References:Helmert U, Strube H. Die Entwicklung der Adipositas in Desutschland im Zeitraum von 1985 bis 2002. Gesundheitswesesn 2004;66:409-415
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².

Adults, 1998

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, 1991

Survey type:Measured
Age:25+
Sample size:7398
References:Helmert U, Strube H. Die Entwicklung der Adipositas in Desutschland im Zeitraum von 1985 bis 2002. Gesundheitswesesn 2004;66:409-415
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².

Children, 2018-2020

Survey type:Measured
Age:8
Sample size:1083
Area covered:Regional
References:Report on the fifth round of data collection, 2018–2020: WHO European Childhood Obesity Surveillance Initiative (COSI). Copenhagen: WHO Regional Office for Europe; 2022. Licence: CC BY-NC-SA 3.0 IGO.
Notes:City of Bremen only
Cutoffs:WHO 2007

Children, 2014-2017

Survey type:Measured
Age:3-17
Sample size:3,567
Area covered:Regional
References:Schienkiewitz A, Damerow S and Rosario AS. 2018. Prävalenz von Untergewicht, Übergewicht und Adipositas bei Kindern und Jugendlichen in Deutschland – Einordnung der Ergebnisse aus KiGGS Welle 2 nach internationalen Referenzsystemen. Journal of Health and Monitoring. 3(3). DOI 10.17886/RKI-GBE-2018-080
Definitions:IOTF cut-offs used (WHO cut off data also available in paper)
Cutoffs:IOTF

Children, 2008

Survey type:Measured
Age:12-16
Sample size:5623
Area covered:National
References:Blüher S, Meigen C, Gausche R, et al. Age-specific stabilization in obesity prevalence in German children: a cross-sectional study from 1999 to 2008. Int J Pediatr Obes. 2011;6(2-2):e199-e206. doi:10.3109/17477166.2010.526305
Cutoffs:IOTF

Children, 2004

Survey type:Measured
Age:12-16
Sample size:8690
Area covered:National
References:Blüher S, Meigen C, Gausche R, et al. Age-specific stabilization in obesity prevalence in German children: a cross-sectional study from 1999 to 2008. Int J Pediatr Obes. 2011;6(2-2):e199-e206. doi:10.3109/17477166.2010.526305
Cutoffs:IOTF

Children, 2003-2006

Survey type:Measured
Age:5-17
Sample size:15662
Area covered:National
References:Kurth BM & Schaffrath RA. 2007. The prevalence of overweight and obese children and adolescent s living in Germany. Results of the German Health Interview and Examination Survey for Children and Adolescents (KiGGS). Bundesgesundheitsblatt, 50: 736 - 743.
Cutoffs:IOTF

Children, 2002-2003

Survey type:Measured
Age:5-17
Sample size:12863
Area covered:National
References:Kurth & Schaffrath Rosario, The prevalence of overweight and obese children and adolescents living in Germany. Results of the German Health Interview and Examination Survey for Children and Adolescents (KiGGS), Bundesgesundheitsblatt 2007;
Cutoffs:IOTF

Children, 2000

Survey type:Measured
Age:12-16
Sample size:6689
Area covered:National
References:Blüher S, Meigen C, Gausche R, et al. Age-specific stabilization in obesity prevalence in German children: a cross-sectional study from 1999 to 2008. Int J Pediatr Obes. 2011;6(2-2):e199-e206. doi:10.3109/17477166.2010.526305
Cutoffs:IOTF

Children, 1992

Survey type:Measured
Age:5-6
Sample size:16281
References:Kalies H, Lenz J, von Kries R. Prevalence of overweight and obesity and trends in body mass index in German pre-school children, 1982-1997. International Journal of Obesity 2002;26:1211-1217
Notes:Sample size number included for the duration of the study from 1982 - 1997
Cutoffs:IOTF

Children, 1982

Survey type:Measured
Age:5-6
Sample size:16281
References:Kalies H, Lenz J, von Kries R. Prevalence of overweight and obesity and trends in body mass index in German pre-school children, 1982-1997. International Journal of Obesity 2002;26:1211-1217
Notes:Sample size number included for the duration of the study from 1982 - 1997
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, 2014-2015

Survey type:Self-reported
Sample size:24824
Area covered:National
References:Schienkiewitz, A, et al. “Overweight and Obesity among Adults in Germany.” Journal of Health Monitoring, vol. 2, no. 2, 2017, edoc.rki.de/bitstream/handle/176904/2663/22n7R61x8fzk.pdf?sequence=1&isAllowed=y, DOI 10.17886/RKI-GBE-2017-038. Accessed 12 Apr. 2021.
Notes:Data is from the GEDA 2014/2015-EHIS study
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².

Women, 2014-2015

Survey type:Self-reported
Sample size:24824
Area covered:National
References:Schienkiewitz, A, et al. “Overweight and Obesity among Adults in Germany.” Journal of Health Monitoring, vol. 2, no. 2, 2017, edoc.rki.de/bitstream/handle/176904/2663/22n7R61x8fzk.pdf?sequence=1&isAllowed=y, DOI 10.17886/RKI-GBE-2017-038. Accessed 12 Apr. 2021.
Notes:Data is from the GEDA 2014/2015-EHIS study
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_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 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+
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:Total sample size in EU = 35100 (Age 18+) 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+
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:Total sample size in EU = 35100 (Age 18+) 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.

Children, 2012

Survey type:Measured
Age:3-6
Sample size:1217
Area covered:Subnational - Munich
References:Manios, Y. et al. (2018). Prevalence and sociodemographic correlates of overweight and obesity in a large Pan-European cohort of preschool children and their families: The ToyBox-study. Nutrition. 55-56 (p), pp.1-7.
Notes:IOTF International cut-offs used. Low Maternal education classed as <14 y of education. Medium/high Maternal education classed as >14 y of education.
Cutoffs:IOTF

Children, 2007-2008

Survey type:Measured
Age:2-9
Sample size:2194
Area covered:National
References:Ahrens W, Pigeot I, Pohlabeln H et al. Prevalence of overweight and obesity in European children below the age of 10. IJO 2014;38:S99-S107
Cutoffs:IOTF

Overweight/obesity by age

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, 2014-2015

Survey type:Self-reported
Sample size:24824
Area covered:National
References:Schienkiewitz, A, et al. “Overweight and Obesity among Adults in Germany.” Journal of Health Monitoring, vol. 2, no. 2, 2017, edoc.rki.de/bitstream/handle/176904/2663/22n7R61x8fzk.pdf?sequence=1&isAllowed=y, DOI 10.17886/RKI-GBE-2017-038. Accessed 12 Apr. 2021.
Notes:Data is from the GEDA 2014/2015-EHIS 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, 2008-2011

Survey type:Measured
Sample size:7116
Area covered:National
References:G.B.M. Mensink. A. Schienkiewitz. M. Haftenberger. T. Lampert. T. Ziese. C. Scheidt-Nave. Overweight and obesity in Germany. Results of the German Health Interview and Examination Survey for Adults (DEGS1)Bundesgesundheitsbl 2013. DOI 10.1007/s00103-012-1656-3 (English supplement available online http://link.springer.com/article/10.1007%2Fs00103-012-1656-3 last accessed 28th May 2013)
Notes:Last reviewed 2nd November 2017
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².

Adults, 2005-2007

Survey type:Measured
Sample size:13207
Area covered:National
References:Federal Ministry of Food, Agriculture and Consumer Protection and Federal Research Institute of Nutrition and Food, Germany, Report of Results 2008 (http://www.bmelv.de/cln_045/nn_1196770/SharedDocs/downloads/03-Ernaehrung/NVS2/NVS__Ergebnisbericht, templateId=raw,property=publicationFile.pdf/NVS_Ergebnisbericht.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, 1998

Survey type:Measured
Sample size:7015
Area covered:National
References:Bergmann KE, Mensink GBM (1999) Korpermasse und Ubergewicht.Gesundheitswesen:62:S115-S120, kindly provided by Prof G Mensk
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².

Children, 2014-2017

Survey type:Measured
Sample size:3561
Area covered:National
References:Mauz, E, et al. “New Data for Action. Data Collection for KiGGS Wave 2 Has Been Completed.” Journal of Health Monitoring, vol. 2, no. 3, 2017, www.rki.de/EN/Content/Health_Monitoring/Health_Reporting/GBEDownloadsJ/ConceptsMethods_en/JoHM_02S3_2017_KiGGS-Wave2_en.pdf%3F__blob%3DpublicationFile, 10.17886. Accessed 12 Apr. 2021.
Definitions:National reference percentiles according to Kromeyer-Hauschild.
Cutoffs:Other

Children, 2008

Survey type:Measured
Sample size:40625
Area covered:National
References:Bluher S, Meigen C, Fausche R, Keller E, Pfaffle R, Sabin M, Werther G, Odeh R, Kiess W. Age specific stabilization in obesity prevalence in German children: A cross sectional study from 1999 to 2008. IJPO 2010;Early online
Cutoffs:IOTF

Children, 2004

Survey type:Measured
Sample size:34649
Area covered:National
References:Bluher S, Meigen C, Fausche R, Keller E, Pfaffle R, Sabin M, Werther G, Odeh R, Kiess W. Age specific stabilization in obesity prevalence in German children: A cross sectional study from 1999 to 2008. IJPO 2010;Early online
Cutoffs:IOTF

Children, 2000

Survey type:Measured
Sample size:17757
Area covered:National
References:Bluher S, Meigen C, Fausche R, Keller E, Pfaffle R, Sabin M, Werther G, Odeh R, Kiess W. Age specific stabilization in obesity prevalence in German children: A cross sectional study from 1999 to 2008. IJPO 2010;Early online
Cutoffs:IOTF

Overweight/obesity by region

Men, 2014-2015

Survey type:Self-reported
Age:15+
Sample size:23791
Area covered:National
References:Schienkiewitz, A, et al. “Overweight and Obesity among Adults in Germany.” Journal of Health Monitoring, vol. 2, no. 2, 2017, edoc.rki.de/bitstream/handle/176904/2663/22n7R61x8fzk.pdf?sequence=1&isAllowed=y, DOI 10.17886/RKI-GBE-2017-038. Accessed 12 Apr. 2021.
Notes:Data is from the GEDA 2014/2015-EHIS study
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².

Women, 2014-2015

Survey type:Self-reported
Age:15+
Sample size:23791
Area covered:National
References:Schienkiewitz, A, et al. “Overweight and Obesity among Adults in Germany.” Journal of Health Monitoring, vol. 2, no. 2, 2017, edoc.rki.de/bitstream/handle/176904/2663/22n7R61x8fzk.pdf?sequence=1&isAllowed=y, DOI 10.17886/RKI-GBE-2017-038. Accessed 12 Apr. 2021.
Notes:Data is from the GEDA 2014/2015-EHIS study
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².

Children, 2003-2006

Survey type:Measured
Age:3-17
Sample size:14747
Area covered:National
References:Reinehr T, Holl RW, Wabitsch M. The German Working Group of Obesity in Childhood and Adolescence (AGA): Improving the Quality of Care for Overweight and Obese Children in Germany. Obesity Facts 2008 DOI:10.1159/000113405
Notes:See paper for cut off
Cutoffs:Other

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

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.

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:SES assessed by annual income.
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:SES assessed by annual income.
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².

Boys, 2014-2017

Survey type:Measured
Age:3-17
Sample size:3561
Area covered:National
References:Mauz, E, et al. “New Data for Action. Data Collection for KiGGS Wave 2 Has Been Completed.” Journal of Health Monitoring, vol. 2, no. 3, 2017, www.rki.de/EN/Content/Health_Monitoring/Health_Reporting/GBEDownloadsJ/ConceptsMethods_en/JoHM_02S3_2017_KiGGS-Wave2_en.pdf%3F__blob%3DpublicationFile, 10.17886. Accessed 12 Apr. 2021.
Definitions:National reference percentiles according to Kromeyer-Hauschild.
Cutoffs:Other

Girls, 2014-2017

Survey type:Measured
Age:3-17
Sample size:3561
Area covered:National
References:Mauz, E, et al. “New Data for Action. Data Collection for KiGGS Wave 2 Has Been Completed.” Journal of Health Monitoring, vol. 2, no. 3, 2017, www.rki.de/EN/Content/Health_Monitoring/Health_Reporting/GBEDownloadsJ/ConceptsMethods_en/JoHM_02S3_2017_KiGGS-Wave2_en.pdf%3F__blob%3DpublicationFile, 10.17886. Accessed 12 Apr. 2021.
Definitions:National reference percentiles according to Kromeyer-Hauschild.
Cutoffs:Other

Children, 2007-2008

Survey type:Measured
Age:2-9
Sample size:2194
Area covered:National
References:Ahrens W, Pigeot I, Pohlabeln H et al. Prevalence of overweight and obesity in European children below the age of 10. IJO 2014;38:S99-S107
Notes:SES assessed by annual income.
Cutoffs:IOTF

Children, 2003-2006

Survey type:Measured
Sample size:14747
Area covered:National
References:Kurth BM, Rosario AS. Die Berbreitung von Ubergewicht und Adipositas bei Kindern und Jugendlichen in Deutschland. Bundesgesundheitsblt-Gesundheitsforsch-Gesundheitsschutz 2007;50:736-743
Notes:Low, medium & high socio-economic group based on Mother. Kromeyer-Hauschild Cut off 90th Percentile
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 10.01.2155
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 10.01.2155
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 10.01.2155
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 10.01.2155
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 10.01.2155
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 10.01.2155
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 10.01.2155
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 10.01.2155
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 10.01.2155
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 10.01.2155
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 10.01.2155
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 10.01.2155
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

National Cycling Plan 2020 Ride your bike! (Nationaler Radverkehrsplan 2020 "FahrRad!")

The National Cycling Plan aims at highlighting cycling opportunities within the framework of an integrated transport policy. The main objective of the plan is to initiate new methods and implementation strategies for the promotion of cycling in Germany. The plan provides recommendations for action and aims at contributing towards creating a bicycle-friendly environment.

Categories:Evidence of Physical Activity Guidelines/Policy
Year(s):2020 (ongoing)
Target age group:Adults and children
Organisation:Federal Ministry of Transport, Building and Housing
Linked document:Download linked document
References:National Cycling Plan 2020

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)

Nutri-Score labelling

The Nutri-Score labelling system is a 5-point colour coded nutritional rating system. It was originally implemented in France and has since been adopted by multiple countries in the WHO European region. The German government recommend the voluntary implementation of the Nutri-Score system, since the policy was adopted by the Food Minister in 2019.

Categories:Labelling Regulation/Guidelines
Year(s):2019 (ongoing)
Target age group:Adults and children
Find out more:globalfoodresearchprogram.web.unc.edu
References:Information sourced from Global Food Research Programme

Therapie und PrÃvention der Adipositas im Kindes- und Jugendalter

Clinical guidelines for prevention and treatment in children and adolescents in Germany

Categories:Evidence of Management/treatment guidelines
Year(s):2019 (ongoing)
Target age group:Children
Organisation:Working group Childhood and adolescent obesity (AGA) of the German Obesity Society (DAG)_x000D__x000D_ and the German Society for Children and Adolescent Medicine (DGKJ)
Find out more:www.awmf.org
References:Evidence-based (S3) guideline of the working group Childhood and adolescent obesity (AGA) of the German Obesity Society (DAG) and the German Society for Children and Adolescent Medicine (DGKJ)_x000D__x000D_ _x000D__x000D_ https://www.awmf.org/uploads/tx_szleitlinien/050-002l_S3_Therapie-Praevention-Adipositas-Kinder-Jugendliche_2019-11.pdf (last accessed 29.01.20)

2018 National reduction and Innovation strategy for Sugar, fats and salt in finished products

Information on the Sugar, fat and salt content of finished products will be provided as well as the energy content.

Categories:Industry/Government regulations - voluntary /pledges
Year(s):2018 (ongoing)
Target age group:Adults and children
Organisation:Bundesministerium fur Ernahrung und landwirtschaft
Find out more:www.bmel.de
Linked document:Download linked document
References:Bundesministerium fur Ernahrung und landwirtschaft. Nationale Reduktions- und_x000D__x000D_ Innovationsstrategie für Zucker, Fette und Salz in Fertigprodukten. Available from: https://www.bmel.de/SharedDocs/Downloads/Ernaehrung/NationaleReduktionsInnovationsstrategie-Layout.pdf?__blob=publicationFile [accessed 31 july 2019].

Food-based dietary guidelines - Germany

The German dietary guidelines were first published in 1956 and have been regularly updated since then. The current version was published in 2017 and it is expected to be updated by 2022.

Categories:Evidence of Nutritional or Health Strategy/ Guidelines/Policy/Action plan
Year(s):2017 (ongoing)
Organisation:The German Nutrition Society
Linked document:Download linked document
References:https://www.fao.org/nutrition/education/food-dietary-guidelines/regions/countries/germany/en/ (last accessed 21.07.22)

NCD Country Profiles 2018 (Obesity Targets)

The profiles also provide data on the key metabolic risk factors, namely raised blood pressure, raised blood glucose and obesity and National Targets on Obesity (as of 2017)

Categories:Evidence of Obesity Target
Year(s):2017 (ongoing)
Target age group:Adults and children
Organisation:World Health Organisation
References:Noncommunicable diseases country profiles 2018. Geneva: World Health Organization; 2018. Licence: CC BY-NC-SA 3.0 IGO.

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

Current Guidelines to Prevent Obesity in Childhood and Adolescence

Reccomendations by the 'German Alliance of Non-communicable Diseases' include one hour of physical activity at school, promotion of healthy food choices by taxing unhealthy foods, mandatory quality standards for meals at kindergarten and schools as well as a ban on unhealthy food advertisement addressing children.

Categories:Evidence of Management/treatment guidelines
Categories (partial):Evidence of National Obesity Strategy/Policy or Action plan
Year(s):2016 (ongoing)
Target age group:Children
Organisation:German Alliance of Non-communicable Diseases
Find out more:www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
Linked document:Download linked document
References:Blüher S, Kromeyer-Hauschild K, Graf C, Grünewald-Funk D, Widhalm K, Korsten-Reck U, Markert J, Güssfeld C, Müller MJ, Moss A, Wabitsch M, Wiegand S. Current Guidelines to Prevent Obesity in Childhood and Adolescence. Klinische Padiatrie. 228 (1) pp. 1-10.

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

Join the Health Boat

Kindergarten and pre-school targeted intervention aiming to increase fruit and vegetable intake and physical activity and decrease sugar sweetened beverages and total screen time.

Categories:Evidence of Nutritional or Health Strategy/ Guidelines/Policy/Action plan
Evidence of Physical Activity Guidelines/Policy
Evidence of Community Interventions/Campaign
Year(s):2016-2017
Target age group:Children
Organisation:"Baden-WÃrttemberg Foundation"
Find out more:www.gesundes-boot.de
Linked document:Download linked document
References:https://www.gesundes-boot.de/kindergarten/gesundheitsstudie-2017/

National recommendations for movement and Promotion of physical activity

Germany physical activity strategy addressing overweight and obesity prevalence.

Categories:Evidence of Physical Activity Guidelines/Policy
Year(s):2016 (ongoing)
Target age group:Adults and children
Organisation:Federal Ministry of Health
Linked document:Download linked document

White paper on obesity

"Weißbuch Adipositas", the White Paper on Obesity, was authored by German scientists from the IGES Institute in 2016.

Categories:Evidence of National Obesity Strategy/Policy or Action plan
Evidence of Nutritional or Health Strategy/ Guidelines/Policy/Action plan
Year(s):2016 (ongoing)
Target age group:Adults and children
Organisation:IGES Institute
Linked document:Download linked document
References:https://adipositas-gesellschaft.de/ueber-adipositas/versorgungssituation-in-deutschland/

White paper on obesity 2016

White paper on obesity [article in german].

Categories (partial):Non-national obesity strategies
Year(s):2016 (ongoing)
Target age group:Adults and children
Organisation:S.Klien et al
Find out more:www.iges.com
Linked document:Download linked document
References:S.Klien et al. Weißbuch adipositas versorgungssituation Deutschland. 2016 Available from: https://www.iges.com/presse/2016/weissbuch-adipositas/e14613/e14614/attr_objs14616/Weissbuch_Adipositas_Klein_et_al_ger.pdf. Accessed 31 July 2019.

2014 - Interdisziplinare Leitlinie der Qualitat S3 zur â Pravention und Therapie der Adipositas✠( Interdisciplinary guideline of quality S3 for Prevention and treatment of obesity)

Interdisciplinary guideline of quality S3 for Prevention and treatment of obesity [article in german]

Categories (partial):Evidence of Management/treatment guidelines
Non-national obesity strategies
Year(s):2014 (ongoing)
Target age group:Adults and children
Organisation:Deutsche Adipositas-Gesellschaft (DAG)
Find out more:www.adipositas-gesellschaft.de
Linked document:Download linked document
References:Deutsche Adipositas-Gesellschaft (DAG). 2014. Interdisziplinäre Leitlinie der Qualität S3 zur_x000D__x000D_ „Prävention und Therapie der Adipositas“. Available from: https://www.adipositas-gesellschaft.de/fileadmin/PDF/Leitlinien/S3_Adipositas_Praevention_Therapie_2014.pdf [accessed August 2019]

Eat Better, Move More

"Eat Better, Move More" is a German initiative to reduce childhood obesity by involving children and families. Part of the wider INFORM project.

Categories:Evidence of Community Interventions/Campaign
Year(s):2014 (ongoing)
Target age group:Children
Organisation:Federal Ministry of Health
Linked document:Download linked document

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;amp;zwnj;

Guidelines for prevention and treatment of obesity ("InterdisziplinÃre Leitlinie der Qualitt S3 zur "PrÃvention und Therapie der Adipositasâœ)

Evidence-based guideline on the prevention and treatment of obesity, aiming to improve the perception of the health problem of obesity,and give specific information and recommendations on prevention.

Categories:Evidence of National Obesity Strategy/Policy or Action plan
Evidence of Management/treatment guidelines
Year(s):2014 (ongoing)
Target age group:Adults and children
Organisation:Deutsche Adipositas Gesellschaft
Find out more:www.adipositas-gesellschaft.de
Linked document:Download linked document
References:Deutsche Adipositas Gesellschaft (2014). Interdisziplinäre Leitlinie der Qualität S3 zur_x000D__x000D_ „Prävention und Therapie der Adipositas“. Available from: https://www.adipositas-gesellschaft.de/fileadmin/PDF/Leitlinien/S3_Adipositas_Praevention_Therapie_2014.pdf. [Accessed 14 December 2018].

Ten guidelines for wholesome eating and drinking from the German Nutrition Society

These guidelines aim to help people enjoy eating and maintaining a balanced diet.

Categories:Evidence of Nutritional or Health Strategy/ Guidelines/Policy/Action plan
Year(s):2013 (ongoing)
Target age group:Adults and children
Organisation:German Nutrition Society
Find out more:www.dge.de
Linked document:Download linked document

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

Let's go - every step counts

Promotes physical activity through health hiking courses and a campaign to collect kilometres walked during one year to earn a hiking badge.

Categories:Evidence of Physical Activity Guidelines/Policy
Year(s):2010 (ongoing)
Target age group:Adults and children
Organisation:The German Hiking Association (Deutscher Wanderverband)
Find out more:www.gesundheitswanderfuehrer.de

Obesity Surgery guidelines (S3-Leitlinie: Chirurgie der Adipositas)

Guidelines which expand and specifies surgical aspects of obesity therapy used in the_x000D__x000D_ Guideline of the German Obesity Society (DAG) "Prevention and Therapy of the_x000D__x000D_ Obesity ".

Categories:Evidence of Management/treatment guidelines
Year(s):2010 (ongoing)
Target age group:Adults and children
Organisation:Deutsche Gesellschaft Fur Algemein und Viszeralchirurgie
Find out more:www.adipositas-gesellschaft.de
Linked document:Download linked document
References:Deutsche Gesellschaft Fur Algemein und Viszeralchirurgie. Deutsche Adipositas-Gesellschaft (DAG) Deutsche Gesellschaft fur Psychosomatische Medizin und Psychotherapie Deutsche Gesellschaft fur Ernahrungsmedizin. S3-Leitlinie: Chirurgie der Adipositas.

The Toy Box Study

The Toy Box intervention is a multicomponent, kindergarten-based, family-involved intervention, focusing on the promotion of water consumption, healthy snacking, physical activity and the reduction/ breaking up of sedentary time in preschool children and their families.

Categories:Evidence of Community Interventions/Campaign
Year(s):2010-2014
Target age group:Adults and children
Organisation:EU funded multidisciplinary team project
Find out more:www.toybox-study.eu

Healthy Start â Young Family Network

The main aim of this network is to support pregnant women and young parents by providing uniform information on nutrition, physical activity and allergy prevention. The network publishes and regularly updates recommendations on nutrition and physical activity in infants and young children and during pregnancy. Dissemination of information is via face-to-face training of health professionals, development and distribution of materials and media such as flyers, stickers, posters, and apps, as well as an extensive PR work.

Categories:Evidence of Nutritional or Health Strategy/ Guidelines/Policy/Action plan
Year(s):2009 (ongoing)
Target age group:Adults and children
Organisation:Healthy Start Young Family Network is part of the Federal Centre for Nutrition as well as of the National Action Plan IN FORM (Germany's initiative to promote healthy diets and physical activity)
Find out more:www.gesund-ins-leben.de
Linked document:Download linked document

Verhaltensregeln des Deutschen Werberats über die kommerzielle Kommunikation für Lebensmittel

Voluntary marketing restriction: advertising aimed at children and young people shall not encourage or condone excessive consumption of foods and beverages containing substances the excessive consumption of which is not recommended, such as fats, trans fatty acids, salt or sodium and sugars. Adopted from July 2009. (Available only in Dutch language)

Categories:Evidence of Marketing Guidelines/Policy
Year(s):2009 (ongoing)
Target age group:Children
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/41604 (last accessed 18.07.22)

Fit In Seniority â Healthy Eating, Better Living

Promoting a healthy lifestyle for older people through information about healthy nutrition, physical activity and social interaction.

Categories:Evidence of Nutritional or Health Strategy/ Guidelines/Policy/Action plan
Evidence of Physical Activity Guidelines/Policy
Year(s):2008 (ongoing)
Target age group:Adults
Organisation:German Association for Nutrition (DGE) and the Federal Association of Elderly Organisation (BAGSO).

Guide to Prevention and Health Promotion (Ratgeber zur PrÃvention und GesundheitsfÃrderung)

Categories:Evidence of Nutritional or Health Strategy/ Guidelines/Policy/Action plan
Year(s):2008 (ongoing)
Target age group:Adults and children
Organisation:Federal Ministry of Health
Find out more:www.bundesgesundheitsministerium.de
Linked document:Download linked document

IN FORM: Deutschlands Initiative fÃr gesunde ErnÃhrung und mehr Bewegung, or Initiative for healthy nutrition and physical activity

The overall aim of INFORM is to promote healthy diets, physical activity and reduce obesity

Categories:Evidence of Nutritional or Health Strategy/ Guidelines/Policy/Action plan
Evidence of National Obesity Strategy/Policy or Action plan
Evidence of Physical Activity Guidelines/Policy
Year(s):2008 (ongoing)
Target age group:Adults and children
Organisation:The Federal Ministry of Health and the Federal Ministry of Food, Agriculture and Consumer Protection
Find out more:www.in-form.de
References:The Federal Ministry of Health and the Federal Ministry of Food, Agriculture and Consumer Protection

KITA Vital

"KITA Vital" is an action for health-promoting children's day care facilities in the Rhein-Sieg district. The implementation is carried out by the association kivi in collaboration with the Health Office of the Rhein-Sieg-Kreis.

Categories:Evidence of Community Interventions/Campaign
Year(s):2008 (ongoing)
Target age group:Children
Organisation:Kivi association
Find out more:kivi-ev.de

Fit50+

Aims at improving the general working ability among unemployed. Core elements are healthy living and eating, physical activity and coping.

Categories (partial):Evidence of Nutritional or Health Strategy/ Guidelines/Policy/Action plan
Year(s):2007 (ongoing)
Target age group:Adults
Organisation:RegioVision GmbH developed the modules, modification and optimization between 2007 and 2010 with the Institute for Preventive Medicine, University of Rostock.
Find out more:www.gesundheitliche-chancengleichheit.de

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

The JuvenTUM project; physical education program on physical activity, fitness, and health in children

A prospective study assessing eight Bavarian primary schools (n=724 children) randomized one to one to either an intervention school (427) or a control school (297). Children in the intervention school attended 10 health-related lessons at school over 1 year and their parents and teachers attended 2 and 3 educational health-related lessons,respectively, and received 10 newsletters on health issues. Daily physical activity, physical fitness, and anthropometric data were then obtained.

Categories (partial):Evidence of Community Interventions/Campaign
Year(s):2006-2007
Target age group:Children
Organisation:Siegrist et al. 2013.
Find out more:www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
Linked document:Download linked document
References:Siegrist et al. 2013. Effects of a physical education program on physical activity,fitness, and health in children: The JuvenTUM project. Scand J Med Sci Sports. 23. pp. 323–330.

Fit am Ball

Fit Am Ball is a collaboration between schools and sports clubs to promote ball games, especially football, in extracurricular activities. The national scheme started in 2003 and targets children in grades 3-6.

Categories:Evidence of Community Interventions/Campaign
Year(s):2005 (ongoing)
Target age group:Children
Organisation:The Institute for Social and Cultural Hermeneutic Research (ISK) in Frankfurt
Find out more:www.fitamball.de
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

Germany becomes fit , join us (Deutschland wird fit, Gehen Sie mit)

Categories:Evidence of Physical Activity Guidelines/Policy
Year(s):2005 (ongoing)
Target age group:Adults and children
Organisation:Ministry of Health
Find out more:deutschland.wirdfit.de
References:Information provided with kind permission of HEPA Europe (European network for the promotion of health-enhancing physical activity): http://data.euro.who.int/PhysicalActivity/?TabID=107126

Act Against Unfair Competition

"According to federal law in Germany, marketing must comply with the legal framework established to control unfair competition. It prohibits any type of advertising that directly invites children to purchase a marketed product themselves or take up a marketed service themselves or cause their parents or other adults to do so. Advertising on the radio and on television as well as teleshopping are subject to the provisions on the protection of minors laid down in section 6 of the Interstate Treaty on the Protection of Human Dignity and the Protection of Minors in Broadcasting and Telemedia Services." - WHO

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

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

IN FORM – German national initiative to promote healthy diets and physical activity

"The law prohibits any type of advertising that directly invites children to buy a marketed product themselves or to take up a marketed service themselves or cause their parents or other adults to do so. Advertising on the radio and on TV as well as teleshopping are subject to the provisions on the protection of minors laid down in section 6 of the Interstate Treaty on the Protection of Human Dignity and the Protection of Minors in Broadcasting and Telemedia Services." - WHO

Categories:Evidence of Marketing Guidelines/Policy
Target age group:Children
Organisation:German Government
References:https://www.euro.who.int/__data/assets/pdf_file/0019/191125/e96859.pdf

NCD targets for Germany

NCD targets for Germany include the aim of permanently halting the increase of obesity rate among adults (18 years and older).

Categories:Evidence of NCD strategy
Target age group:Adults
References:https://extranet.who.int/ncdccs/Data/DEU_Germany_NCD_targets_2019.pdf

Peb Online

The Platform Nutrition and Exercise eV (peb) is an open alliance with numerous members from the public sector, science, business, sport, health care and civil society. At peb, they are all actively committed to a balanced diet and regular and sufficient exercise as essential components of a health-promoting lifestyle for children and adolescents. Many documents and links available on website.

Categories:Evidence of Nutritional or Health Strategy/ Guidelines/Policy/Action plan
Evidence of Physical Activity Guidelines/Policy
Evidence of Community Interventions/Campaign
Target age group:Children
Organisation:Die Plattform Ernährung und Bewegung e.V.
Find out more:www.pebonline.de

Standards for meals in retirement homes

"Meals on Wheels" are privately purchased meals produced by a manufacturer and deliverty to customers directly. The German Nutrition Society provides quality standards and ceretifications for the manufacturers.

Categories:Evidence of Nutritional or Health Strategy/ Guidelines/Policy/Action plan
Target age group:Adults
References:https://policydatabase.wcrf.org/level_one?page=nourishing-level-one#step2=6#step3=338

The FIT KID certification for day care centres

"Daycare centers can get certified for healthy eating in their facility. To do this, they have to use a checklist for four weeksDGE-Check the quality standard in the daycare center and take part in an audit. After passing the audit, the daycare centers are allowed to use the name FIT KID certification and advertise it. The certificate can be extended through regular re-audits."

Categories:Evidence of Community Interventions/Campaign
Target age group:Children
Organisation:Federal Ministry of Food and Agriculture
Find out more:www.fitkid-aktion.de
References:https://www.bmel.de/DE/themen/ernaehrung/gesunde-ernaehrung/kita-und-schule/qualitaetsstandards-kindertageseinrichtungen.html

The German Nutrition Society (DGE) Quality Standard for School Meals

The German Nutrition Society (DGE) school food guidelines are voluntary across Germany. The guidelines set regulations surrounding the quality and content of school meals. However, 2 states of Germany have passed these guidelines by Law. In 2014, Berlin set these guidelines as mandatory. The state of Saarland similarly enforces these guidelines on a mandatory basis.

Categories:Evidence of Nutritional or Health Strategy/ Guidelines/Policy/Action plan
Target age group:Children
Organisation:German Nutrition Society (DGE)
References:https://www.schuleplusessen.de/fileadmin/user_upload/medien/DGE_QST_SchoolMeals.pdf

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?Absent
Tax on unhealthy foods?Absent
Tax on unhealthy drinks?Absent
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?Absent
Mandatory restriction on non-broadcast media?Absent
Voluntary policies/marketing restrictions on the promotion of unhealthy food/drinks to children?Present
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?Present

Political will and support

National obesity strategy or nutrition and physical activity national strategy?Present
National obesity strategy?Present
National childhood obesity strategy?Absent
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?Present
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)?Absent

Key

Present
Present (voluntary)
Incoming
Absent
Unknown

Last updated June 30, 2023

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Download contextual factors as a PDF Contextual factors definitions

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