Overweight in Singapore
More than 40% of Singaporean adults are overweight or obese by HPB Asian standards. Understanding what “overweight” means in Singapore, and how the HPB thresholds differ from global standards, is essential for accurate health assessment.
40.3%
Adults overweight/obese by HPB standards
BMI 23
HPB overweight threshold for Asians
1 in 9
Singaporeans with diabetes (partly weight-related)
28%
Would be overweight by WHO thresholds only
Singapore's HPB BMI Standards Explained
The most important thing Singaporeans need to know about BMI is that Singapore uses different thresholds from the WHO global standard. The HPB Asian classification places the overweight threshold at BMI 23.0, compared to the WHO's 25.0. This means that many Singaporeans who would be classified as “normal weight” by international tools are actually overweight by local health standards.
| Category | HPB (Singapore) | WHO (Global) |
|---|---|---|
| Healthy weight | 18.5–22.9 | 18.5–24.9 |
| Overweight | 23.0–27.4 | 25.0–29.9 |
| Obese | ≥27.5 | ≥30.0 |
Why 40% of Singaporeans Are Overweight
The rise in overweight rates in Singapore mirrors global trends but is amplified by specific local factors: a hawker culture rich in refined carbohydrates and fried foods, increasing sedentary desk work, and a high-stress work environment. The transition from a physically active workforce in the 1960s–80s to a predominantly desk-based economy has dramatically reduced baseline daily energy expenditure.
Rates are highest among older Singaporeans (60–69: estimated 50%+ overweight by HPB standards) and lowest among those aged 18–29. Overweight rates are also higher in men than women across all age groups.
Health Risks of Being Overweight at BMI 23–27.4
- Increased risk of Type 2 diabetes — significant at BMI 23+
- Elevated LDL cholesterol and reduced HDL cholesterol
- Higher blood pressure (each 5 BMI units adds ~5 mmHg systolic BP)
- Greater risk of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease
- Increased risk of certain cancers (colorectal, breast, endometrial)
- Joint strain and early-onset osteoarthritis
- Sleep apnoea and disrupted sleep quality
HPB Weight Management Recommendations
The HPB recommends a goal of reaching BMI 18.5–22.9 for most Singaporean adults. For those currently overweight (BMI 23–27.4), an initial target of 5–10% body weight loss is clinically meaningful and achievable. A moderate calorie deficit of 500–750 kcal/day is considered safe and leads to 0.5–0.75 kg of weight loss per week.
Singapore's HPB offers free resources including the Healthy 365 app, the Eat, Drink, Shop Healthy Challenge, and the Step Challenge to support weight management. The Community Health Assist Scheme (CHAS) subsidises dietitian and physiotherapist consultations for eligible residents.
Frequently Asked Questions
What percentage of Singaporeans are overweight?
According to the HPB National Population Health Survey 2022, approximately 40.3% of Singaporean adults aged 18–69 are overweight or obese by Asian BMI standards (BMI ≥23.0). This compares to about 28% using the WHO global threshold of BMI ≥25.0. The difference reflects the use of Singapore's HPB Asian cutoffs, which better reflect the metabolic risks faced by Asian adults.
Is a BMI of 23 overweight in Singapore?
Yes. Singapore's Health Promotion Board (HPB) defines overweight as a BMI of 23.0 or above for Asian adults. This is lower than the international WHO threshold of 25.0. The lower HPB cutoff is based on evidence that Asians, including Singaporeans, develop metabolic complications such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease at lower BMI values than Caucasians. A BMI of 23–27.4 is classified as overweight (HPB); 27.5 and above is classified as obese.
How can I lose weight safely in Singapore?
The HPB recommends a structured approach: (1) Calculate your daily calorie needs using a TDEE calculator, (2) Create a moderate calorie deficit of 500–750 kcal/day to lose 0.5–0.75 kg/week, (3) Aim for a diet with balanced macronutrients, reduced refined carbohydrates, and adequate protein to preserve muscle mass, (4) Achieve at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise weekly, (5) Get adequate sleep — sleep deprivation raises hunger hormones. Do not go below 1,200 kcal/day (women) or 1,500 kcal/day (men). The HPB Community Health Assist Scheme (CHAS) subsidises dietitian visits for eligible Singaporeans.
Which foods are making Singaporeans overweight?
Singapore's hawker culture — while a source of national pride — includes many calorie-dense staples. White rice (high glycaemic index), fried dishes like nasi lemak and char kway teow, sweetened drinks like kopi-o and teh tarik, and kueh (sticky rice cakes) are commonly consumed in excess. Singapore also has one of the highest per-capita sweetened beverage consumption rates in Southeast Asia. The HPB Healthier Dining Programme and Nutri-Grade labelling on beverages are government initiatives helping Singaporeans make healthier food choices.