Understanding the Rise of Obesity in Quebec
Recent data from Statistics Canada show a concerning trend in Quebec: 68% of adults aged 18 to 79 were in the overweight or obese range (based on BMI) for the 2022–2024 period. Nearly one in three Quebecers is considered obese, a record that highlights the long-term consequences of the pandemic and rising food prices. Among youth, 31% of children are dealing with overweight, a level that remains stable but is worrisome because early weight trajectories often persist into adulthood. These figures underline a health challenge that affects both the body and the mind.
Causes and Context
The rise in obesity in Quebec cannot be attributed to a single factor. The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted daily routines, reduced physical activity, and altered dietary habits. At the same time, rising grocery costs and the proliferation of screens have contributed to more sedentary behaviors and poorer food choices. When healthy options are scarce or financially out of reach, families and individuals may struggle to maintain balanced eating and regular activity—habits that shape health for years to come.
Health Impacts: Body and Mind
Excess weight is linked to higher risks of type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and joint problems. It also affects mental well-being, self-esteem, and social participation—an especially pressing concern for children and adolescents who are navigating school and social life. The data from Quebec’s public health context, including ongoing monitoring by INSPQ, emphasizes that obesity is not merely a cosmetic issue but a complex public health challenge with lasting consequences.
What the World Health Organization Recommends
The World Health Organization (WHO) emphasizes practical, attainable targets: at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity per week or 75 minutes of vigorous activity, plus regular daily movement. The idea is not only to burn calories but to build and preserve muscle mass, improve metabolic health, and enhance overall quality of life. For families, this translates into small, consistent changes—weekday brisk walks, active commuting, family bike rides, and reducing prolonged screen time.
Taking Action in Quebec
Local communities, schools, and healthcare providers have a role in creating environments that make healthy choices easier. This includes expanding access to safe spaces for physical activity, ensuring affordable healthy foods, and delivering education that translates into daily habits. Public health messaging should acknowledge the realities of modern life—busy schedules, budget constraints, and screen-dominated leisure—while offering practical, evidence-based solutions for households across Quebec.
Resources and Local Opportunities
For a deeper understanding of how obesity has progressed in Quebec, consult the INSPQ’s analyses and timelines. The evidence points to a trajectory that requires sustained action—both at the policy level and in everyday routines. In Laval, the Armand Frappier Museum hosts an exhibition addressing obesity and health in the province, offering a chance to engage with the topic in a tangible way. And with spring turning to a sunny season, getting outside for regular activity becomes both enjoyable and essential.
Practical Ways to Start Now
- Incorporate 30 minutes of moderate activity most days of the week; split it into shorter blocks if needed.
- Plan meals that emphasize whole foods—vegetables, fruits, lean proteins, and whole grains—while limiting ultra-processed items.
- Encourage families to reduce screen time and build active routines into daily life, such as walking to errands or biking after dinner.
- Sleep well and manage stress, both of which influence eating behavior and energy levels.
- Seek local resources or programs that support physical activity for all ages and abilities.
Data Source and Further Reading
Key data come from Statistics Canada and INSPQ. For more context, see INSPQ’s timeline: Une ligne du temps pour comprendre la progression de l’obésité au Québec.
