Obesity cases rising fastest in young adults in England, study finds

Obesity is increasingly diagnosed in younger adults across England, with concerning new data showing the fastest rise in cases among those in their 20s and 30s. A study published in The Lancet reveals that new diagnoses for people in their 30s increased by nearly 20% between the 2019-20 and 2024-25 periods, while rates for those in their 20s jumped by 16%.

“

They have been surrounded by unhealthy food in their formative years. On our high streets there has been a proliferation of takeaways and fast food outlets and unhealthy food has been heavily advertised as these age groups have been growing up.

While older age groups still have the highest overall diagnosis rates, primarily in their 40s and 50s, the acceleration among younger demographics is a significant worry. Experts highlight that obesity is a major risk factor for developing serious health conditions, including diabetes, heart disease, and cancer. The study also noted earlier obesity onset in non-white individuals and in areas with higher levels of deprivation, patterns that are established but whose acceleration in younger adults is particularly unexpected.

“

The stress of looking after children, while working from home and then being able to afford healthy food as inflation increased, has made healthier lifestyles more difficult.

Researchers suggest several key factors contribute to this trend. Lead researcher Robert Fletcher pointed to younger adults growing up during a boom in the unhealthy food market, surrounded by pervasive advertising and a proliferation of fast-food outlets. He also cited the combined stress of the pandemic and the ongoing cost of living crisis, which has made maintaining healthier lifestyles more challenging, especially for those juggling work and childcare.

“

From infancy, children and young people are bombarded with advertising that encourages an unhealthy diet.

Public health officials echo these concerns, noting that unhealthy food options dominate supermarkets and corner shops, often being cheaper and more accessible than healthier alternatives. Research indicates healthy foods can be twice as expensive per calorie. Katharine Jenner of the Obesity Health Alliance added that the digital environment, including food apps and social media, likely plays a role, alongside pandemic-related disruptions to physical activity, impacting habit-forming behaviors at a critical developmental stage.

“

It is also far cheaper and easier for individuals to consume foods and drinks high in fat, sugar, and salt than healthier alternatives.