Summary
In 2024, the number of U.S. states with obesity rates at or above 35% decreased slightly compared to the previous year, according to a report. However, obesity-related health issues remain a significant concern. The report suggests that recent reductions in federal health program funding could affect progress in tackling obesity.
Key Facts
- In 2024, 19 states had adult obesity rates at or above 35%.
- This is a decrease from 23 states the year before, marking the first drop since 2013.
- In 2014, only three states had obesity rates at or above 35%.
- The highest obesity rates in 2024 were in West Virginia (41.4%), Mississippi (40.4%), and Louisiana (39.2%).
- No state had an obesity rate below 25% in 2024.
- The Trust for America's Health bases its findings on data from the CDC's Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System.
- Obesity rates are higher among Black and Hispanic Americans, and in low-income households.
- The report criticizes recent federal funding cuts to public health programs targeting obesity and chronic disease.
