Married men have a higher risk of obesity than women — research findings

One of the studies presented at the European Obesity Congress in 2025 showed that the risk of obesity is significantly higher in married men compared to women. The study also found that married men are 3.2 times more likely to be overweight than their unmarried counterparts. According to Jim Pollard, a consultant for the Men's Health Forum, the increase in body weight in men may be due to stressful careers and unhealthy eating habits.

Researchers analyzed the medical and general health data of 2,405 individuals aged 50, examining the increase in body weight based on various factors. Factors such as family status, age, and mental health were included in the statistical analysis.

It was found that marriage increases the likelihood of being overweight by 62 percent in men and 39 percent in women. This indicates that married men not only gain more weight but also experience lifestyle changes that affect their health.

According to a study conducted in China in 2024, the body mass index (BMI) of men was observed to increase within five years after marriage due to the consumption of high-calorie foods and lack of physical activity. A study conducted by Bath University revealed that married men are, on average, 1.4 kg heavier than their unmarried colleagues.

Age was also identified as a major factor in weight gain in the studies. A study conducted in Warsaw found that the risk of being overweight increases by 3 percent in men and 4 percent in women with age. Additionally, the risk of obesity increased by 4 percent in men and 6 percent in women.

Furthermore, researchers mentioned depression as a factor that increases the risk of obesity in women. It was found that the risk of obesity in women doubles due to depression. Moreover, insufficient health literacy increased the risk of obesity in women by 43 percent. However, these factors did not affect weight gain in men.

Katherine Jenner, director of the Obesity Alliance, indicated that this research shows that being overweight is not merely a personal choice but arises from a complex interplay of social, psychological, and environmental factors. Additionally, the connection between obesity and marriage in men demonstrates how lifestyle changes, eating habits, and societal expectations can impact health.

According to Joanna Sirdan from Bath University, the weight gain of married men after marriage is primarily due to social obligations and regular eating habits. Women, on the other hand, may gain excess weight due to societal pressure.

At the same time, the global problem of obesity remains quite serious. Since 1990, global obesity rates have more than doubled. Today, over 2.5 billion adults and children worldwide suffer from being overweight. Experts predict that by 2050, more than half of adults and one-third of children will be affected by overweight-related diseases.

Moreover, scientists and experts emphasize the need to promote comprehensive policies and strategies that take into account social and environmental factors to prevent obesity and overweight.