New 2022 population data shows that 22 states have an adult obesity prevalence at or above 35 percent, compared with 19 states in 2021, according to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Just ten years ago, no state had an adult obesity prevalence of 35 percent or higher.
The 2022 adult obesity prevalence maps They highlight the need for population-based interventions to ensure that all people have access to healthy foods, safe places for physical activity, stigma-free obesity prevention and treatment programs, and evidence-based health care services, such as medications and surgery, the CDC said.
In their report, they highlighted that the 22 states with an adult obesity prevalence equal to or greater than 35 percent include: Alabama, Arkansas, Delaware, Georgia, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, Nebraska, Dakota of the North, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, West Virginia and Wisconsin.
The 2022 maps show that obesity affects some groups more than others. There are notable differences by race and ethnicity, as shown by the combined 2020-2022 data.
Among geographic groups (states, territories, or DC) with sufficient data, the number with an adult obesity prevalence of 35 percent or higher, by race/ethnicity, is:
- American Indian or Alaska Native adults: 33 (among 47 states)
- Asian adults: 0 (across 37 states, 1 territory, and DC)
- Black adults: 38 (between 48 states and DC)
- Hispanic adults: 32 (among 49 states, 2 territories and DC)
- White adults: 14 (among 49 states, 1 territory and DC)
State prevalence of adult obesity by race, ethnicity, and location is based on self-reported height and weight data from the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System.
Adults with obesity are at increased risk for many other serious health conditions, including heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, some cancers, severe COVID-19 outcomes, and poor mental health.
In addition, obese people say they are stigmatized because of their weight, she stressed.
In that regard, CDC noted that to make progress, everyone—federal, state, and local governments; communities; providers; and public health partners—must work together to provide comprehensive support for obesity prevention and treatment.
“Our updated maps send a clear message that additional support for obesity prevention and treatment is an urgent priority. Obesity is a disease caused by many factors, including eating patterns, physical activity levels, sleep routines, genetics, and certain medications. This means there is no one-size-fits-all approach,” said Karen Hacker, director of CDC’s National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion.
“We know that key strategies that work include addressing the underlying social determinants of health, such as access to health care, healthy and affordable food, and safe places for physical activity,” she added.
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