How long do obese people live?

Obesity significantly impacts life expectancy, reducing the average lifespan by several years. The specific reduction varies depending on the severity of obesity and other factors such as overall health and lifestyle.

According to a comprehensive study published in the journal JAMA Internal Medicine, individuals with severe obesity (a Body Mass Index or BMI of 40 or higher) had a life expectancy reduction of approximately 10 years compared to those with a healthy weight (BMI of 20 to 25). This means that a severely obese 40-year-old individual could potentially lose a decade of their expected lifespan.

The study further found that even moderate obesity (BMI 30 to 35) was associated with a reduced life expectancy of around 3 to 4 years. For example, a 40-year-old individual with moderate obesity could see a reduction in their life expectancy by approximately 3 to 4 years compared to someone with a healthy weight.

It is important to note that these estimates represent averages across large populations and may vary based on individual circumstances. Nevertheless, the association between obesity and reduced life expectancy underscores the seriousness of this condition and the importance of weight management for overall health and longevity.