One in Ten People with Obesity in the Netherlands Has Type 2 Diabetes
CBS data highlights strong links between obesity, age, and increasing rates of type 2 diabetes across the Dutch population
According to the latest figures from the Dutch Statistics Office (CBS) and its partners for 2023/2024, 10% of people living with obesity in the Netherlands have been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. In comparison, only 2% of people without excess weight have the condition. The data further reveals that the frequency of type 2 diabetes increases notably with age, rising to 14% among those aged 75 and older.
CBS statistics also indicate a steep rise in type 2 diabetes rates as age advances. For individuals under 50 years old, less than 1% are affected, while the rate jumps to 17% among those over 65 who are obese. The report finds that people with diabetes over the age of 50 are also more likely to have cardiovascular disease; 14% report such conditions compared to just 6% among their non-diabetic peers.
Dietary habits differ between groups as well. Adults over 50 with diabetes drink about two glasses of sugary beverages a week on average, whereas those without diabetes drink around three. Additionally, diabetics tend to consume fewer fruits and vegetables. CBS emphasizes, however, that these findings point to correlations and do not prove direct cause and effect. Both obesity and lifestyle choices influence diabetes risk, and the condition itself can impact habits and weight. World Diabetes Day has been observed globally on November 14 since 1991.
