For the first time in over a decade, obesity rates in the U.S. have not increased, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
However, the CDC also reports that severe obesity is still on the rise, creating serious public health concerns.
A report from the CDC’s National Center for Health Statistics reveals that from August 2021 to August 2023, the overall obesity rate among U.S. adults was approximately 40.3%.
This marks a slight decline from 2020 when the rate stood at 41.9%.
Though the drop may seem minor, it represents a break in the decade-long trend of steadily increasing obesity rates.
Since 2011, U.S. adults have consistently struggled with obesity, making the recent leveling-off noteworthy. However, experts urge caution, pointing out that obesity remains alarmingly prevalent.
“The rate remains far too high,” the CDC highlighted in its report, noting that the national obesity epidemic is far from over.
While the general obesity rate has plateaued, the CDC report highlights a more troubling statistic: the rise in severe obesity. Individuals with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher are classified as obese, while those with a BMI of 40 or higher fall into the category of severe obesity.
Between 2013-2014 and August 2023, the percentage of Americans suffering from severe obesity jumped from 7.7% to 9.7%.
The data also points to significant differences between men and women when it comes to severe obesity.
Women are disproportionately affected, with 12.1% classified as severely obese compared to just 6.7% of men.
The highest rates of severe obesity among men were found in those aged 40–59, while for women, the rates were highest in those aged 20–59.
The CDC’s “Healthy People 2030” initiative, which aims to reduce obesity to below 38.6% by 2030, is making slow progress.
Although the stabilization of the obesity rate is a step in the right direction, the rising rates of severe obesity demonstrate that much work remains to be done.
The report underscores the importance of public health efforts focused on promoting healthier eating habits and increased physical activity.
“Healthy People 2030” highlights these as critical strategies to help Americans reach and maintain a healthy weight.
Despite the stabilization of overall obesity rates, the rising number of individuals affected by severe obesity signals that the struggle against obesity in America is not yet over.
Health experts continue to call for ongoing efforts to tackle this widespread national concern.