Obesity is not a lifestyle choice or a failure of willpower. It is a complex, chronic medical condition — and it is one of the most prevalent and costly health challenges facing Canada today.

The Scale of the Problem

Obesity remains a significant and persistent public health challenge in Canada, affecting approximately one in four adults aged 18 to 79 years. Higher prevalence is seen among men and older adults. 

In 2019, the overall obesity prevalence among Canadian adults was 24.3%. Males had a higher prevalence at 26.7% compared to 22.0% in females. Obesity also increased with age, affecting 19.8% of adults aged 18–39, 25.5% of those aged 40–59, and 29.3% of those 60–79. 

The Health Consequences Are Serious

Severe obesity presents the greatest health risk, particularly for type 2 diabetes — carrying 5.1 times the risk compared to normal BMI — and cardiovascular disease, with 2.53 to 3.14 times the risk compared to normal BMI. 

Obesity contributes to the growing burden of chronic diseases such as type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disorders, and mental health conditions. It is associated with reduced quality of life and increased healthcare expenditures. 

The Gap in Treatment

Despite the scale of this crisis, access to medically supervised treatment remains deeply uneven across Canada. Anti-obesity medications aren’t covered by any provincial or territorial drug benefit plan, and there are very few medically supervised weight-management programs, and they often cost thousands of dollars. 

This is the gap telehealth can help close. Our platform connects Canadians directly with licensed prescribers who can assess eligibility for prescription weight loss medication — efficiently, affordably, and from anywhere in Canada.

Obesity Is a Medical Condition — Not a Personal Failure

Healthcare providers can recognize and treat obesity as a chronic disease, caused by abnormal or excess body fat accumulation, that impairs health. The science is clear: willpower alone is rarely sufficient. Effective, compassionate medical treatment makes a measurable difference.

Take the first step. Start your online assessment →

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