Obesity and Overweight: First Comprehensive Overview in the French Armed Forces

The global rise in obesity is well-established, with significant health implications. This study aims to comprehensively assess overweight and obesity prevalence within the French Armed Forces.

Using data from the Unique Medical-Military Software (UMMS) in 2018, a cross-sectional study was conducted on active French Military personnel aged 18 and above, who underwent periodic medical examinations (PME) in 2017. Body Mass Index (BMI) served as the main criterion for overweight and obesity classification. A representative sample was obtained through random sampling.

The sample included 17,082 individuals, revealing an average age of 33.5 years, with 36.1% classified as overweight and 9.6% as obese. The mean BMI of women was significantly lower than that of men (23.9 vs 25.3 kg/m2-P < .001). Results indicated that 22.4% of women vs 38.5% of men were overweight (P < .001). For obesity, the difference was not significant (8.8% of women vs 9.8% of men-P = .138). BMI increased with age, and non-commissioned officers (NCOs) showed the highest prevalence of obesity. Gendarmes exhibited the highest BMI and overweight rates (50.1%) among military branches.

While obesity is less prevalent in the French Armed Forces compared to the general population, the study emphasizes the equivalent prevalence of overweight. We confirm here that the global epidemic of obesity and overweight affects all armed forces. France seems less affected than other Western armies. Targeting specific groups, such as NCOs and the national gendarmerie, is crucial for prevention.