MEPs for Action on Obesity

MEPs for Action on Obesity is an informal MEP Interest Group in the European Parliament established in 2025. This group convenes MEPs who have an interest in driving forward EU-level action on obesity to promote prevention, improve screening and diagnosis, ensure access to treatment and care, and overall improve the quality of life for people living with obesity in the EU. It is the leading platform where MEPs meet to discuss the importance of recognising obesity as a health and societal policy priority, due to its nature as a complex disease and as a gateway to several other NCDs.

The Secretariat for MEPs for Action on Obesity is provided by the European Association for the Study of Obesity.

Key Facts

Obesity affects over 190 million people in Europe and causes more than 1.2 million deaths every year. The EU has an unprecedented opportunity to take decisive action on obesity in the 2024-2029 mandate.

Obesity increases the risk of over 200 complications including CVD, type 2 diabetes, and certain cancers.

The economic impact of obesity in Europe is estimated at 475 billion EUR in direct and indirect costs, with costs projected to rise to 1.597 billion EUR.

Addressing obesity could help prevent over 300.000 new cancer cases across the EU between 2023 and 2050.

80% of all healthcare spending in the EU is related to noncommunicable diseases associated with obesity.

10-13% of deaths in different parts of Europe are linked to obesity.

Early diagnosis can help to stop or slow the progression of obesity and prevent the development of other chronic diseases.

Between 2023 to 2060, early intervention could reduce obesity prevalence by 25 million and obesity related complications by 745 million.

30% of the EU population will be living with obesity by 2030.

Objectives

Two women stand inside a bus, both wearing glasses, denim jackets, and scarves. One woman is leaning on a rail and looking outside, while the other woman sits nearby, smiling. Traffic is visible through the window.

Ensure obesity is recognised as a complex disease in its own right and as an important gateway to several other NCDs.

Close-up of people in suits seated at a conference table with microphones, papers, and pens in front of them, suggesting a formal meeting or discussion is taking place.

Support informed discussions between policymakers and leading experts, patients and health professionals.

A stethoscope lying on top of a printed medical chart with numbers and coloured sections, alongside other healthcare-related items on a cluttered desk.

Promote policy coherence between related NCDs and ensure obesity policy action is integrated across different health and related files.

A man sits at a table using a laptop whilst a woman stands beside him, pointing at the screen. They appear to be working together in a brightly-lit kitchen with orange tiles and red cupboards.

Shift the conversation on obesity beyond prevention and highlight the importance of comprehensive action that covers early detection and diagnosis and patient-centred care for improving the overall quality of life for patients living with obesity.

A stethoscope rests on a blue fabric with yellow stars, resembling the flag of the European Union. The image suggests a connection between healthcare and the EU.

Mobilise momentum toward a comprehensive EU Action Plan on Obesity and encourage the development, funding and implementation of national obesity strategies across Member States.