EXAMINATION OF OBESITY PREVALENCE IN TÜRKİYE FROM A GENDER PERSPECTIVE

Abstract

The distribution of body fat in humans significantly differs between men and women, influenced by sex hormones. The World Health Organization states that 11% of men and 15% of women in the general population are obese. Furthermore, there are regional differences in the prevalence and incidence of obesity between genders. Understanding the differences in obesity between women and men, and the reasons behind these differences, can provide valuable insights for clinical practices and obesity management policies. Therefore, this research aims to examine the prevalence of obesity in Türkiye from a gender perspective. In this context, the research was conducted using document analysis methodology with statistical data provided by the Turkish Statistical Institute (TÜİK) on its official website (tuik.gov.tr). The data obtained in the study encompass the body mass index (BMI) ratios calculated using the height and weight values of individuals aged 15 and above. The findings of the research showed that in 2022, 23.6% of women were obese and 30.9% were pre-obese, while 16.8% of men were obese and 40.4% were pre-obese. These findings represent an important step in understanding the distribution of obesity across genders. The higher prevalence of obesity among women necessitates more in-depth research into potential contributing factors. Understanding the effects of sex hormones and biological differences on obesity risk can play a critical role in shaping health policies and individual preventive measures. In this regard, understanding the gender-related distribution of obesity in Türkiye can contribute to the development of more effective and gender-sensitive obesity management strategies.