• Overview
  • Obesity prevalence
  • Trends over time
  • Population breakdowns
  • Drivers
  • Comorbidities
  • Economic impact
  • Policies
  • Contextual factors
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National obesity risk *8/10This is a composite ‘obesity risk’ score (out of 10, the highest risk) based on obesity prevalence, rate of increase, likelihood of meeting the 2025 target, treatment indicator and childhood stunting levels.Childhood obesity risk *6/11This is a ‘risk score’ for each country’s likelihood of having or acquiring a major childhood obesity problem during the 2020s, taking account of current prevalence levels and risk for future obesity (based on stunting among infants, maternal obesity, maternal smoking, and breastfeeding rates).
* Based on estimated data. For more information see Publications

Obesity prevalence

Trends over time

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Population breakdowns

By education

By age

By region

By socio-economic group

Drivers

Insufficient activity

Fruit consumption

Processed meat consumption

Grains consumption

Depression

Anxiety

Roots of obesity »

Like all chronic diseases, the root causes/drivers of obesity are complex. Select here to view 'other' root causes/drivers.

Breastfeeding

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Comorbidities

Oesophageal cancer

Breast cancer

Colorectal cancer

Pancreatic cancer

Gallbladder cancer

Kidney cancer

Cancer of the uterus

Raised blood pressure

Raised cholesterol

Raised fasting blood glucose

Diabetes prevalence

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Economic impact

Economic impact

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Policies

National Obesity Strategy

Nutritional or Health Strategy

Marketing

Physical Activity

Tax/Subsidies on Food or Beverages

Community Interventions

Labelling

NCD Strategy

Regulations (voluntary/pledges)

Management or treatment guidelines

Non-national strategies

Breastfeeding

Obesity Target

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Contextual factors

Contextual factors

Obesity prevalence

Adults, 2016

Survey type:Measured
Age:15+
Sample size:7767
Area covered:National
References:National Department of Health (NDoH), Statistics South Africa (Stats SA), South African Medical Research Council (SAMRC), and ICF. 2019. South Africa Demographic and Health Survey 2016. Pretoria, South Africa, and Rockville, Maryland, USA: NDoH, Stats SA, SAMRC, and ICF.
Notes:3105 Men 4662 Women
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².
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Adults, 2012

Survey type:Measured
Age:15+
Sample size:7267
Area covered:National
References:NHANES South Africa http://www.hsrc.ac.za/en/research-outputs/view/6493
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².
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Adults, 2003

Survey type:Measured
Age:15+
Sample size:7756
Area covered:National
References:Department of Health, Medical Research Council, OrcMacro. 2007. South Africa Demographic and Health Survey 2003. Pretoria: Department of Health.
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².
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Adults, 1998

Survey type:Measured
Age:15+
Sample size:13585
References:Personal Communication from V Lambert. Anthropometric patterns in SA: Results from the National Demographic and Adult Health Survey, 1998
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².
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Children, 2012

Survey type:Measured
Age:2-14
Sample size:4278
Area covered:National
References:NHANES South Africa http://www.hsrc.ac.za/en/research-outputs/view/6493
Notes:IOTF Cut off. Reference: Cole TJ, Bellizzi MC, Flegal KM, Dietz WH. Establishing a standard definition for child overweight and obesity worldwide: International survey. BMJ. 2000 May 6;320(7244):1240-3 NB. Combined child 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 20.11.20)
Cutoffs:IOTF
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Children, 2001-2004

Survey type:Measured
Age:6-13
Sample size:10283
Area covered:National
References:Armstrong MEG, Lambert MI, Sharwood KA & Lambert EV. 2006. Obesity and overweight in South African primany school children - the Health of the Nation Study. South African Medical Journal, 96: 439 - 444.
Notes:IOTF Cut off. Reference: Cole TJ, Bellizzi MC, Flegal KM, Dietz WH. Establishing a standard definition for child overweight and obesity worldwide: International survey. BMJ. 2000 May 6;320(7244):1240-3.
Cutoffs:IOTF
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Overweight/obesity by education

Men, 2016

Survey type:Measured
Age:15+
Sample size:7767
Area covered:National
References:National Department of Health - NDoH, Statistics South Africa - Stats SA, South African Medical Research Council - SAMRC, and ICF. 2019. South Africa Demographic and Health Survey 2016. Pretoria, South Africa, and Rockville, Maryland, USA: NDoH, Stats SA, SAMRC, and ICF.
Notes:Demographic Health Survey data includes ever married women aged 15-49 years only and may include males aged 15-59.
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².
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Women, 2016

Survey type:Measured
Age:15+
Sample size:7767
Area covered:National
References:National Department of Health - NDoH, Statistics South Africa - Stats SA, South African Medical Research Council - SAMRC, and ICF. 2019. South Africa Demographic and Health Survey 2016. Pretoria, South Africa, and Rockville, Maryland, USA: NDoH, Stats SA, SAMRC, and ICF.
Notes:Demographic Health Survey data includes ever married women aged 15-49 years only and may include males aged 15-59.
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².
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Men, 2003

Survey type:Self-reported
Age:15+
References:Department of Health, Medical Research Council, OrcMacro. 2007. South Africa Demographic and Health Survey 2003. Pretoria: Department of Health. (https://dhsprogram.com/pubs/pdf/FR206/FR206.pdf last accessed 08.07.20)
Notes:Demographic Health Survey data includes ever married women aged 15-49 years only and may include males aged 15-59.
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².
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Women, 2003

Survey type:Self-reported
Age:15+
References:Department of Health, Medical Research Council, OrcMacro. 2007. South Africa Demographic and Health Survey 2003. Pretoria: Department of Health. (https://dhsprogram.com/pubs/pdf/FR206/FR206.pdf last accessed 08.07.20)
Notes:Demographic Health Survey data includes ever married women aged 15-49 years only and may include males aged 15-59.
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².
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Men, 1998

Survey type:Measured
Age:15+
References:Department of Health/South Africa and Macro International. 2002. South Africa Demographic and Health Survey 1998. Pretoria, South Africa: Department of Health/South Africa. (https://www.samrc.ac.za/sites/default/files/files/2017-07-03/dhsfin1.pdf last accessed 08.07.20)
Notes:Demographic Health Survey data includes ever married women aged 15-49 years only and may include males aged 15-59.
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².
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Women, 1998

Survey type:Measured
Age:15+
References:Department of Health/South Africa and Macro International. 2002. South Africa Demographic and Health Survey 1998. Pretoria, South Africa: Department of Health/South Africa. (https://www.samrc.ac.za/sites/default/files/files/2017-07-03/dhsfin1.pdf last accessed 08.07.20)
Notes:Demographic Health Survey data includes ever married women aged 15-49 years only and may include males aged 15-59.
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².
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Overweight/obesity by age

Adults, 2016

Survey type:Measured
Sample size:3105 Men4662 Women
Area covered:National
References:National Department of Health - NDoH, Statistics South Africa - Stats SA, South African Medical Research Council - SAMRC, and ICF. 2019. South Africa Demographic and Health Survey 2016. Pretoria, South Africa, and Rockville, Maryland, USA: NDoH, Stats SA, SAMRC, and ICF.
Notes:Demographic Health Survey data includes ever married women aged 15-49 years only and may include males aged 15-59.
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².
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Adults, 2007-2010

Survey type:Measured
Sample size:3836
Area covered:National
References:Wu F, Guo Y, Chatterji S, et al. Common risk factors for chronic non-communicable diseases among older adults in China, Ghana, Mexico, India, Russia and South Africa: the study on global AGEing and adult health (SAGE) wave 1. BMC Public Health. 2015;15:88. doi:10.1186/s12889-015-1407-0.
Notes:Prevalence of obesity for adults aged 50+
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².
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Adults, 2003

Survey type:Self-reported
References:Department of Health, Medical Research Council, ORC Macro. 2007. South Africa Demographic and Health Survey 2003. Pretoria, South Africa: Department of Health/South Africa.
Notes:Demographic Health Survey data includes ever married women aged 15-49 years only and may include males aged 15-59.
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².
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Adults, 1998

Survey type:Self-reported
References:Department of Health/South Africa and Macro International. 2002. South Africa Demographic and Health Survey 1998. Pretoria, South Africa: Department of Health/South Africa.
Notes:Demographic Health Survey data includes ever married women aged 15-49 years only and may include males aged 15-59.
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².
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Overweight/obesity by region

Men, 2016

Survey type:Measured
Age:15+
Sample size:3105 Men4662 Women
Area covered:National
References:National Department of Health - NDoH, Statistics South Africa - Stats SA, South African Medical Research Council - SAMRC, and ICF. 2019. South Africa Demographic and Health Survey 2016. Pretoria, South Africa, and Rockville, Maryland, USA: NDoH, Stats SA, SAMRC, and ICF.
Notes:Demographic Health Survey data includes ever married women aged 15-49 years only and may include males aged 15-59.
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².
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Women, 2016

Survey type:Measured
Age:15+
Sample size:3105 Men4662 Women
Area covered:National
References:National Department of Health - NDoH, Statistics South Africa - Stats SA, South African Medical Research Council - SAMRC, and ICF. 2019. South Africa Demographic and Health Survey 2016. Pretoria, South Africa, and Rockville, Maryland, USA: NDoH, Stats SA, SAMRC, and ICF.
Notes:Demographic Health Survey data includes ever married women aged 15-49 years only and may include males aged 15-59.
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².
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Adults, 2007-2010

Survey type:Measured
Age:50+
Sample size:3836
Area covered:National
References:Wu F, Guo Y, Chatterji S, et al. Common risk factors for chronic non-communicable diseases among older adults in China, Ghana, Mexico, India, Russia and South Africa: the study on global AGEing and adult health (SAGE) wave 1. BMC Public Health. 2015;15:88. doi:10.1186/s12889-015-1407-0.
Notes:Prevalence of obesity for adults aged 50+
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².
Download graph Add to custom PDF

Men, 2003

Survey type:Self-reported
Age:15+
References:Department of Health, Medical Research Council, ORC Macro. 2007. South Africa Demographic and Health Survey 2003. Pretoria, South Africa: Department of Health/South Africa.
Notes:Demographic Health Survey data includes ever married women aged 15-49 years only and may include males aged 15-59.
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².
Download graph Add to custom PDF

Women, 2003

Survey type:Self-reported
Age:15+
References:Department of Health, Medical Research Council, ORC Macro. 2007. South Africa Demographic and Health Survey 2003. Pretoria, South Africa: Department of Health/South Africa.
Notes:Demographic Health Survey data includes ever married women aged 15-49 years only and may include males aged 15-59.
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².
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Men, 1998

Survey type:Self-reported
Age:15+
References:Department of Health/South Africa and Macro International. 2002. South Africa Demographic and Health Survey 1998. Pretoria, South Africa: Department of Health/South Africa.
Notes:Demographic Health Survey data includes ever married women aged 15-49 years only and may include males aged 15-59.
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².
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Women, 1998

Survey type:Self-reported
Age:15+
References:Department of Health/South Africa and Macro International. 2002. South Africa Demographic and Health Survey 1998. Pretoria, South Africa: Department of Health/South Africa.
Notes:Demographic Health Survey data includes ever married women aged 15-49 years only and may include males aged 15-59.
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².
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Boys, 2012

Survey type:Measured
Age:2-14
Sample size:4278
Area covered:National
References:Shisana O, Labadarios D, Rehle T, Simbayi L, Zuma K, Dhansay A, Reddy P,Parker W, Hoosain E, Naidoo P, Hongoro C, Mchiza Z, Steyn NP, Dwane N, Makoae M, Maluleke T,Ramlagan S, Zungu N, Evans MG, Jacobs L, Faber M, & the SANHANES-1 Team (2014) South African National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (SANHANES-1): 2014 Edition. Cape Town: HSRC Press.
Notes:Sample size for all 2-14yrs
Cutoffs:IOTF
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Girls, 2012

Survey type:Measured
Age:2-14
Sample size:4278
Area covered:National
References:Shisana O, Labadarios D, Rehle T, Simbayi L, Zuma K, Dhansay A, Reddy P,Parker W, Hoosain E, Naidoo P, Hongoro C, Mchiza Z, Steyn NP, Dwane N, Makoae M, Maluleke T,Ramlagan S, Zungu N, Evans MG, Jacobs L, Faber M, & the SANHANES-1 Team (2014) South African National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (SANHANES-1): 2014 Edition. Cape Town: HSRC Press.
Notes:Sample size for all 2-14yrs
Cutoffs:IOTF
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Overweight/obesity by socio-economic group

Men, 2016

Survey type:Measured
Age:15+
Sample size:7767
Area covered:National
References:National Department of Health - NDoH, Statistics South Africa - Stats SA, South African Medical Research Council - SAMRC, and ICF. 2019. South Africa Demographic and Health Survey 2016. Pretoria, South Africa, and Rockville, Maryland, USA: NDoH, Stats SA, SAMRC, and ICF.
Notes:Demographic Health Survey data includes ever married women aged 15-49 years only and may include males aged 15-59.
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².
Download graph Add to custom PDF

Women, 2016

Survey type:Measured
Age:15+
Sample size:7767
Area covered:National
References:National Department of Health - NDoH, Statistics South Africa - Stats SA, South African Medical Research Council - SAMRC, and ICF. 2019. South Africa Demographic and Health Survey 2016. Pretoria, South Africa, and Rockville, Maryland, USA: NDoH, Stats SA, SAMRC, and ICF.
Notes:Demographic Health Survey data includes ever married women aged 15-49 years only and may include males aged 15-59.
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².
Download graph Add to custom PDF

Adults, 2007-2010

Survey type:Measured
Age:50+
Sample size:3836
Area covered:National
References:Wu F, Guo Y, Chatterji S, et al. Common risk factors for chronic non-communicable diseases among older adults in China, Ghana, Mexico, India, Russia and South Africa: the study on global AGEing and adult health (SAGE) wave 1. BMC Public Health. 2015;15:88. doi:10.1186/s12889-015-1407-0.
Notes:Prevalence of obesity for adults aged 50+ by income level. Lowest (Quintile 1) is the quintile with the poorest households and Highest (Quintile 5) the quintile with the richest households.
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².
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Children, 2013

Survey type:Measured
Age:9
Sample size:574
Area covered:Regional
References:Pienaar AE. Prevalence of overweight and obesity among primary school children in a developing country: NW-CHILD longitudinal data of 6-9-yr-old children in South Africa. BMC Obes. 2015 Feb 7;2:2. doi: 10.1186/s40608-014-0030-4. PMID: 26217517; PMCID: PMC4511440.
Notes:NB VERY SMALL SAMPLE SIZE North West Province
Cutoffs:IOTF
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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
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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
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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
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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)
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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)
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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)
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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
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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
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% Infants exclusively breastfed 0-5 months

Children, 2005-2020

Area covered:National
References:South Africa Demographic and Health Survey 2016. Pretoria, South Africa, and Rockville, Maryland, USA: NDoH, Stats SA, SAMRC, and ICF
Notes:See UNICEF website for further survey information. Available at : https://data.unicef.org/resources/dataset/infant-young-child-feeding/ (last accessed 28.9.21) Citation: United Nations Children’s Fund, Division of Data, Analysis, Planning and Monitoring (2021). Global UNICEF Global Databases: Infant and Young Child Feeding: Exclusive breastfeeding, New York, September 2021.
Definitions:% exclusively breastfed 0-5 months
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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 10.01.2325
Definitions:Age-standardized indicence rates per 100 000
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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 10.01.2325
Definitions:Age-standardized indicence rates per 100 000
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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 10.01.2325
Definitions:Age-standardized indicence rates per 100 000
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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 10.01.2325
Definitions:Age-standardized indicence rates per 100 000
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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 10.01.2325
Definitions:Age-standardized indicence rates per 100 000
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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 10.01.2325
Definitions:Age-standardized indicence rates per 100 000
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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 10.01.2325
Definitions:Age-standardized indicence rates per 100 000
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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 10.01.2325
Definitions:Age-standardized indicence rates per 100 000
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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 10.01.2325
Definitions:Age-standardized indicence rates per 100 000
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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 10.01.2325
Definitions:Age-standardized indicence rates per 100 000
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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 10.01.2325
Definitions:Age-standardized indicence rates per 100 000
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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 10.01.2325
Definitions:Age-standardized indicence rates per 100 000
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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).
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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).
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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).
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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).
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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).
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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).
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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).
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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).
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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, %
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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 (%).
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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 (%).
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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 Strategic Plan for the Prevention and Control of Non-Communicable Diseases, 2022 – 2027

The plan aims to move South Africa closer to Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 3.4: To reduce, by one-third, premature mortality from NCDs+ through prevention and treatment and promote mental health and well-being by 2030 through the progressive improvement of wellness and reduction of premature morbidity, disability and mortality from NCDs. Within the plan, there is a deliverable to undertake regular screening and awareness campaigns on obesity among children and adults.

Categories:Evidence of NCD strategy
Year(s):2022-2027
Target age group:Adults and children
Organisation:Department of Health
Linked document:Download linked document

National Nutrition week and Obesity week

National Nutrition Week and National Obesity Week (NNOW) are celebrated every year from 9 – 15 October and 15 – 19 October respectively to create awareness among consumers about obesity and the importance of eating healthy.

Categories:Evidence of Community Interventions/Campaign
Year(s):2020 (ongoing)
Target age group:Adults and children
Organisation:Department of Health of South Africa
Find out more:www.health.gov.za
Linked document:Download linked document

Health promotion levy on sugary beverages

Health Promotion Levy (HPL) on sugary beverages is a new levy aiming to decrease diabetes, obesity and other related diseases in South Africa. Levy applies to beverages with >4g 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:South African Revenue Service
Find out more:www.sars.gov.za
Linked document:Download linked document
References:South African Revenue Service (2018). Health Promotion Levy on sugary beverages. Available from: http://www.sars.gov.za/ClientSegments/Customs-Excise/Excise/Pages/Health%20Promotion%20Levy%20on%20Sugary%20Beverages.aspx. [Accessed 14 December 2018].

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.

ACTION - African Centre for Obesity Prevention

The ACTION centre was launched in 2015 to strengthen obesity research in South Africa. It aims to prevent and manage obesity in Africa through evidence-based actions.

Categories:Non-national obesity strategies
Year(s):2015 (ongoing)
Target age group:Adults and children
Organisation:University of Witwatersrand.
Find out more:www.wits.ac.za

National Food and Nutrition Security task team

Inter-departmental task team working on food and nutrition security issues.

Categories:Evidence of Nutritional or Health Strategy/ Guidelines/Policy/Action plan
Year(s):2015 (ongoing)
Target age group:Adults and children
Organisation:Government
Find out more:extranet.who.int

National Health Promotion Policy and Strategy

This National Health Promotion Policy reaffirms the commitment of the Department of Health to promote the health of all South Africans

Categories (partial):Evidence of Nutritional or Health Strategy/ Guidelines/Policy/Action plan
Year(s):2015-2019
Target age group:Adults and children
Organisation:Department of Health
Linked document:Download linked document

The Prevention and Control of Obesity in South Africa Strategy, 2015-2020

The main emphasis of the strategy includes; communication, education and mobilization around the growing rates of obesity in South Africa. As well as a focus on childhood obesity. There are six broad goals of the strategy including; Create an institutional framework to support inter-sectoral engagement; Create an environment supporting availability & accessibility to healthy food in various settings, Increase the percentage of the population engaging in physical activity, Support obesity prevention in early childhood, Communicate with, educate and mobilise communities and establish a surveillance system and strengthen monitoring, evaluation and research.

Categories:Evidence of National Obesity Strategy/Policy or Action plan
Year(s):2015-2020
Target age group:Adults and children
Organisation:Department of Health Republic of South Africa
Find out more:www.health-e.org.za
Linked document:Download linked document
References:Department of Health Republic of South Africa. Strategy for the Prevention and Control of Obesity in South Africa 2015-2020. Available from: https://www.health-e.org.za/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/National-Strategy-for-prevention-and-Control-of-Obesity-4-August-latest.pdf (Accessed 3 April 2019).

National Policy on Food and Nutrition Security for South Africa

National Policy on how to improve Food and Nutrition Security in South Africa.

Categories:Evidence of Nutritional or Health Strategy/ Guidelines/Policy/Action plan
Year(s):2014 (ongoing)
Target age group:Adults and children
Organisation:Government
Linked document:Download linked document
References:https://www.gov.za/documents/national-policy-food-and-nutrition-security-south-africa#

Food Based Dietary Guidelines

Food-based dietary guidelines (FBDGs) are brief, positive dietary recommendation messages that are used to inform consumers how to choose food and beverage combinations that will lead to a diet that is adequate, that meets nutrient need and that is, at the same time, prudent, for example, which lowers the risk of noncommunicable diseases (NCDs)

Categories:Evidence of Nutritional or Health Strategy/ Guidelines/Policy/Action plan
Year(s):2013 (ongoing)
Target age group:Adults and children
Organisation:Nutrition Society of South Africa, Department of Health of South Africa,
Linked document:Download linked document
References:Vorster HH, Badham JB, Venter CS. An introduction to the revised food-based dietary guidelines for South Africa. S Afr J Clin Nutr 2013;26(3):S1-S164

Foodstuffs, Cosmetics and Disinfectants Act (54/1972): Regulations relating to the reduction of sodium in certain foodstuffs and related matters.

In 2013, the South African Department of Health adopted targets for salt reduction in 13 food categories by means of regulation. There was a stepped approach, with food manufacturers given until June 2016 to meet one set of category-based targets and another three years, until June 2019, to meet the next.

Categories:Evidence of Nutritional or Health Strategy/ Guidelines/Policy/Action plan
Year(s):2013 (ongoing)
Target age group:Adults and children
Organisation:Department of Health
Find out more:extranet.who.int
Linked document:Download linked document
References:https://extranet.who.int/nutrition/gina/en/node/38490

Strategic Plan for the Prevention and Control of Non-Communicable Diseases 2013-17

The South African Declaration for Prevention and Control of Non-communicable diseases commits to a set of 10 goals and targets to be achieved by 2020. The plan covers tobacco, physical activity, blood pressure, STI and more.

Categories (partial):Evidence of Nutritional or Health Strategy/ Guidelines/Policy/Action plan
Evidence of Physical Activity Guidelines/Policy
Evidence of NCD strategy
Year(s):2013-2017
Target age group:Adults and children
Organisation:Government
Linked document:Download linked document

The Foodstuffs, Cosmetics and Disinfectants Act: Regulations relating to the labelling and advertising of foodstuff

The Foodstuffs, Cosmetics and Disinfectants Act mandates nutritional information requirements when a claim is made. General nutritional information when no claim is made is voluntary.

Categories:Labelling Regulation/Guidelines
Year(s):2012 (ongoing)
Target age group:Adults and children
Organisation:Ministry of Health
Linked document:Download linked document
References:https://extranet.who.int/nutrition/gina/en/node/25397

Foodstuffs, Cosmetics and Disinfectants Act, 1972 (Act no. 54 of 1972): Regulations Relating to Trans-fat in Foodstuffs

The South African Foodstuffs, Cosmetics, and Disinfectants Act prohibits the sale, manufacturing and importation of any oils or fats, alone or as part of processed food, that exceed 2g per 100g of oil or fat.

Categories:Evidence of Nutritional or Health Strategy/ Guidelines/Policy/Action plan
Year(s):2011 (ongoing)
Target age group:Adults and children
Organisation:Department of Health
Find out more:extranet.who.int
Linked document:Download linked document
References:Countdown to 2023: WHO report on global trans-fat elimination 2020. Geneva: World Health Organization; 2020. Licence: CC BY-NC-SA 3.0 IGO

South Africa Pledge on Marketing to Children

Companies participating in the South African Marketing to Children Pledge publicly commit to restrictions on marketing communications to children twelve years old and under with a view to promoting healthy dietary choices and healthy lifestyles.

Categories:Industry/Government regulations - voluntary /pledges
Categories (partial):Evidence of Marketing Guidelines/Policy
Year(s):2009 (ongoing)
Target age group:Children
Find out more:ifballiance.org
Linked document:Download linked document
References:https://ifballiance.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/South_african_marketing_to_children_pledge.pdf

Guidelines for treatment of Obesity in Adults 2005

Guidelines for Obesity treatment in adults in South Africa.

Categories:Evidence of Management/treatment guidelines
Year(s):2005 (ongoing)
Target age group:Adults
Organisation:Snow, V, Barry, P, Fitterman, N, Qaseem, A. and Weiss, K.
Find out more:www.safpj.co.za
Linked document:Download linked document
References:Snow, V, Barry, P, Fitterman, N, Qaseem, A. and Weiss, K. 2005. Guidelines for treatment of obesity in adults. South African Family practice. 47(6). http://www.safpj.co.za/index.php/safpj/article/view/245

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

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?Absent
Front-of-package labelling?Absent
Back-of-pack nutrition declaration?Present
Color coding?Absent
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?Absent
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-(voluntary)
Are there mandatory standards for food in schools?Absent
Are there any mandatory nutrient limits in any manufactured food products?Present
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?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?Absent
Promotion of breastfeeding?Absent

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 September 13, 2022

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Download contextual factors as a PDF Contextual factors definitions

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