Obesity Rates Increasing in US States, New Data Shows
New data from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reveals that obesity is becoming more common in a growing number of states. In 2022, a total of 22 states had at least 35% of adults with obesity, up from 19 states in the previous year. This is a significant increase, considering that just ten years ago, no state had an adult obesity prevalence at or above 35%.
The state with the highest prevalence of obesity was Louisiana, followed by Oklahoma and West Virginia. In these states, more than 40% of adults were classified as obese. Overall, obesity rates were highest in the Midwest and the South, where approximately 36% of adults had obesity. In contrast, the Northeast and West had a lower prevalence, with about 30% of adults affected.
The data, collected through the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System survey conducted by the CDC and state health departments, also revealed notable differences in obesity prevalence by race and ethnicity. In 38 states, at least 35% of Black adults were obese, while the same was true for American Indian adults in 33 states and Hispanic adults in 32 states. Asian adults generally had lower obesity rates, with no state reporting rates above 35%. Only 14 states reached that metric for White adults.
Age and education level were also factors related to obesity. Obesity rates were lowest among young adults, with about 1 in 5 individuals aged 18 to 24 classified as obese. Rates were approximately doubled among adults aged 45 to 54, with a prevalence of about 2 in 5. Additionally, obesity prevalence decreased as the level of education increased.
Dr. Karen Hacker, director of the CDC’s National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, emphasized that obesity is a disease caused by various factors and requires a multifaceted approach for prevention and treatment. She stressed the importance of addressing the underlying social determinants of health, such as access to healthcare, healthy and affordable food, and safe places for physical activity.
The new data underscore the urgent need for additional support in tackling the obesity epidemic. The rise in obesity rates across multiple states calls for comprehensive strategies and interventions to promote healthier lifestyles and reduce the risk of chronic diseases associated with obesity.