The Overweight Crisis in Bulgaria
A new nationally representative survey by the "Trend" Research Center, conducted in April 2026, sounds the alarm regarding the serious scale of obesity in the country. The data show that about 2 million adult Bulgarians (37%) are living with excess weight.
"Obesity is not just an aesthetic problem, but a serious medical challenge that requires combined efforts," commented Dimitar Ganev during a forum where a memorandum of cooperation was signed between the "Coalition Against Obesity" and a number of scientific societies.
Why do weight loss efforts fail?
- Lack of results: 57% of respondents share that their attempts to reduce weight have not led to lasting success.
- Frequent unsuccessful attempts: 35% of people have made over four attempts to lose weight.
- Methods: Most often, people rely on a diet, followed by physical activity and nutritional supplements.
Associated health risks
The study establishes a direct link between weight and chronic diseases:
- High blood pressure (50% of respondents)
- High cholesterol (one in three)
- Joint problems and osteoarthritis (23%)
- High blood sugar (16%)
- Psychological problems, depression, and tension (11%)
The situation is particularly alarming among adolescents, as 28% of surveyed parents share that their children are also overweight.