The recent report from Trust for America’s Health reveals that there’s been a decline in the number of states with high adult obesity rates for the first time in over ten years. According to the analysis of data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, in 2024, 19 states had adult obesity rates of 35% or higher. This marks a decrease from 23 states in 2023.
Back in 2012, none of the states surpassed the 35% obesity threshold, but by 2019, 12 states were recorded above that mark, and the numbers escalated from there.
Obesity, which is classified as having an adult body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher, poses significant health risks, including diabetes, stroke, and heart disease. While BMI is a common measure, it’s important to note that experts suggest it may not fully capture the complexities of body composition.
The states with the highest obesity rates are mainly located in the Plains, South, and Midwest regions, whereas coastal states generally report lower rates. West Virginia topped the list at 41.4%, while Colorado had the lowest at 25%, according to the report.
A total of 20 states experienced declines in their adult obesity rates, with Virginia showing the most notable drop of just 2%. In contrast, Nevada had the most significant increase at 3.4%.
Interestingly, Alaska, Illinois, Missouri, New Mexico, and South Carolina reported adult obesity rates below 35%. However, Texas saw an increase in its obesity rate, rising from 34.4% to 35.6% this year.
While the decrease in high obesity rates among adults is encouraging, the study also pointed out that the obesity rate for children and teens has risen to over 21%, up from 19.7% based on 2017-2020 data.
Nationally, the obesity rate among adults remains shockingly high, with about four out of every ten adults classified as obese as per the latest figures. A spokesperson from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services expressed optimism regarding the progress reflected in the new data.
However, the reasons behind the apparent improvement in adult obesity rates are somewhat unclear. One suggestion from experts is that increased use of medications like Wegovy and Zepbound, which aid in appetite suppression, may be contributing. Additionally, enhanced support for nutrition assistance during the pandemic could have played a role.
On the downside, some of these nutritional support programs are now facing cuts. The “One Big Beautiful Bill” eliminated a grant program aimed at improving access to healthy food, and recent legislation could alter eligibility for some SNAP recipients.
The report also emphasizes various initiatives at federal, state, and local levels aimed at enhancing nutrition and encouraging physical activity. An expert from Emory University noted that these interventions might actually yield positive results, suggesting the potential for effective obesity prevention strategies.
