US Adult Obesity Prevalence Increasing

September 15, 2021

 

Number of States With High Obesity Prevalence Rises to 16
New CDC maps show that the number of states with an adult obesity prevalence at or above 35% has nearly doubled since 2018 and disparities persist.

 

Adult obesity prevalence continues to rise, according to new CDC data. Up from 9 states in 2018 and twelve in 2019, the 2020 Adult Obesity Prevalence Maps show that 16 states now have an adult obesity prevalence at or above 35%: Alabama, Arkansas, Delaware, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Michigan, Mississippi, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, and West Virginia.
Prevalence of Self-Reported Obesity Among US Adults by State and Territory, BRFSS, 2020

 

The maps show adult obesity prevalence by race, ethnicity, and location based on self-reported height and weight data from the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS). Combined data from 2018-2020 show notable racial and ethnic disparities. Among states and territories with sufficient data*: 0 states had an obesity prevalence at or above 35% for non-Hispanic Asian residents. 7 states had an obesity prevalence at or above 35% for non-Hispanic White residents. 22 states had an obesity prevalence at or above 35% for Hispanic residents. 35 states and the District of Columbia had an obesity prevalence this high among non-Hispanic Black residents.

 

Prevalence of Self-Reported Obesity by Race, Ethnicity, and Location, BRFSS, 2018-2020

 

Non-Hispanic Asian Adults Non-Hispanic White Adults

 

Hispanic Adults Non-Hispanic Black Adults

Adults with obesity are at increased risk for many other serious health conditions such as heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, some cancers, and poorer mental health. Some studies indicate that the health risks associated with obesity may occur at a lower body mass index (BMI) for some people of Asian descent. Individuals should talk regularly with their healthcare provider about their body mass index, family history of chronic disease, current lifestyle, and health risks.   Turning the tide on obesity will take a sustained, comprehensive effort from all parts of society. We will need to acknowledge the existing health disparities and health inequities and address the social determinants of health such as poverty and lack of health care access if we are to ensure health equity. These maps help by showing where efforts to prevent obesity and to support individuals with this disease are needed most.   Additional Data on Obesity CDC PLACES offers community-level data on adult obesity prevalence Data, Trends, and Maps includes data on nutrition, physical activity, and obesity risk factors Notes on Language and Images CDC encourages the use of person-first language, such as adults with obesity rather than obese adults when discussing topics like obesity and other chronic diseases. Also see the Obesity Action Coalition's Guidelines for Media Portrayals of Individuals Affected by Obesity.   Notes on BMI These maps use self-reported height and weight information to determine the prevalence of obesity based on BMI. For individuals, BMI is a screening tool, but it does not diagnose body fatness or health. Some people may be at risk for chronic disease even if their BMI falls in the healthy weight range. Individuals should speak with a healthcare provider if they have concerns about their weight or health status.   *The number of states and territories with sufficient data varies based on the map. 35 states, the District of Columbia, and Guam had sufficient data among non-Hispanic Asian adults. 49 states, the District of Columbia, Guam, and Puerto Rico had sufficient data among non-Hispanic White adults. 49 states, the District of Columbia, Guam, and Puerto Rico had sufficient data among Hispanic adults. 48 states, the District of Columbia, and Guam had sufficient data among non-Hispanic Black adults.

 

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