A major study published in The Lancet has revealed that individuals with obesity face a 70% higher risk of being hospitalized or dying from a wide range of infectious diseases compared to those at a healthy weight. Researchers analyzing data from over 540,000 adults found that this increased vulnerability applies to common illnesses such as flu, pneumonia, and COVID-19. Researchers estimate obesity is linked to about one in ten infection-related deaths worldwide, with particularly high rates in the US and UK. Scientists believe obesity may weaken immune defenses, making infections more severe. The findings highlight the need for stronger public health strategies on weight management.
Date: February 11, 2026. Summary: euronews.com