Global AveragesGlobal Averages

    Global Average Obesity Rate

    Last updated: January 28, 2026

    16%

    %

    The global average obesity rate is approximately 16% of adults. This has tripled since 1975. The United States leads among major nations at 42.4%, while Japan and South Korea remain under 6%.

    Share

    Historical Trend

    Source: WHO

    Global Average Obesity Rate by Country

    Country Value (%) ↓Source
    United States42.4CDC
    Saudi Arabia35.4WHO
    United Arab Emirates31.7WHO
    Australia31.7ABS
    Canada29.4StatCan
    South Africa28.3Stats SA
    United Kingdom27.8NHS
    Russia23.1Rosstat
    Germany22.3RKI
    Brazil22.1IBGE
    France17Santé Publique
    China16.4NCD-RisC
    Netherlands14.2CBS
    Nigeria8.9WHO
    Pakistan8.6WHO
    South Korea5.7KCDC
    India5.3NFHS
    Japan4.3MHLW

    Why This Average Exists

    Obesity is a major risk factor for heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. Tracking it helps public health agencies allocate resources and design interventions.

    Factors That Affect Global Average Obesity Rate

    • Diet patterns
    • Physical activity
    • Food industry practices
    • Urbanization
    • Income levels
    • Cultural food norms

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Methodology & Data Sources

    The data presented on this page is compiled from publicly available datasets published by international organizations including the World Bank, World Health Organization (WHO), International Labour Organization (ILO), United Nations, NASA, and national statistical agencies.

    Global averages are calculated using population-weighted or arithmetic means depending on the metric. Country-level data reflects the most recent available figures, typically from 2024–2024. Where gaps exist, the latest available data point is used.

    All figures are subject to revision as source organizations update their datasets. For the most authoritative data, we encourage consulting the original sources linked in the table above.

    Further Reading