Alarming statistics: 2 million Bulgarians are overweight

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.