Obesity is still a terrible issue in the US and below, you can find out the latest reports revealed by the CDC. Check out more here.
Obesity rates on the rise
Recent data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) highlights an alarming rise in obesity rates in the United States. The CDC’s state-based Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System, conducted through telephone surveys, shows a significant increase in obesity prevalence nationwide.
This paints a concerning picture of the nation’s overall health, indicating the urgent need for targeted interventions to combat this growing health crisis.
Obesity prevalence is measured as the proportion of adults with a body mass index (BMI) equal to or greater than 30. Regional disparities in obesity rates further emphasize the need for specific and localized approaches to address this issue.
In 2022, the number of states with obesity prevalence rates exceeding 35 percent increased significantly from 17 to 22. Dr. Karen Hacker, the director of the CDC’s National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, discussed the complexities of obesity and the challenges that health officials face when dealing with this widespread issue.
Dr. Hacker stressed the need for additional support in obesity prevention and treatment, stating that it is an urgent priority. Obesity is caused by various factors such as eating habits, physical activity, sleep patterns, genetics, and medication.
Therefore, there is no single solution that fits all. Addressing the underlying social determinants of health, such as access to healthcare, healthy and affordable food, and safe spaces for physical activity, is crucial to combatting obesity.
The data indicates that obesity rates declined with an increase in education level. Adults without a high school diploma or equivalent had the highest prevalence of obesity at 37.6%, followed by those with some college education at 35.9%, high school graduates at 35.7%, and college graduates at 27.2%. Additionally, the CDC data highlights the impact of age on obesity prevalence.
