Summary
New data indicates that the number of obese adults in the U.S. fell for the first time in recent years, with fewer states having adult obesity rates over 35 percent. Efforts to tackle obesity continue, with calls for policy and investment to support nutrition and physical activity.
Key Facts
- The adult obesity rate in the U.S. declined in 2024, with fewer states having rates above 35 percent.
- 40.3 percent of U.S. adults were obese between 2021 and 2023.
- The highest obesity rates were in West Virginia, Mississippi, and Louisiana.
- The lowest obesity rates were in Colorado, Hawaii, and Massachusetts.
- Obesity costs the U.S. healthcare system nearly $173 billion a year.
- Black and Latino adults in rural areas tend to have higher obesity rates.
- People with college degrees and higher incomes usually have lower obesity rates.
- Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. aims to address obesity as part of a national health initiative.
