The latest published (2024) NHS England figures on obesity show that 29% of men and 31% of women are obese.

Both male and female figures are the highest since official statistics began (1993) when it was 13% for men and 16% for women.

Figure 1: Percentage of Obese Adults by Sex (England, 1993-2024)

Men in London (19%) have the lowest male obesity while men in the South West and Yorkshire and Humber have the highest (33%). These are according to the age standardised rates.

Men aged 55-64have the highest rates (37%) and the lowest rates are 14% for men aged 16-24.

Contrary to some “myths” the data also shows that it is employed men who are more likely to be obese. 30% of employed men as opposed to 22% of unemployed men and 24% of economically inactive men.

There is also a difference between economic status but again, perhaps not as much as “myths" would suggest” 28% of men in the least deprived areas are obese as compared to34% in the most.

In terms of age, 17% of boys aged 2-15 are obese, a rise from 11% in 1993. In terms of girls, the figures have only slightly risen from 12% to 13%.  This suggests a drop in physical exercise, poor diet and not enough outside activity are having an impact on young men.

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Figure 2: Percentage of Obese Children by Sex (Aged 2-15, England, 1995-2024)

This is part of a series of research snapshots on men's health for Men's Health Week and to support the Men's Health Strategy #MensHealthWeek