U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): The obesity rate among American adults will reach 20% in 2023!

The 2023 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) adult obesity prevalence map for 48 states, the District of Columbia, and 3 U.S. territories shows: One in five adults in each U.S. state Adults are obese; one in three adults are obese in 23 states; that number is one more state than in 2022.

This is a telephone interview survey conducted by CDC and state health departments based on self-reported weight and height, proportion of adults with a body mass index (BMI) greater than or equal to 30 (≥30 kg/m2), race and There are significant differences between ethnic groups.

These new data highlight the need to prevent and treat obesity, starting with healthier communities with safe places for people of all ages to play and health care and healthy food options that are accessible and affordable to all.

Preventing obesity from an early age is critical, as children who are obese often continue to be obese as adults. Obesity prevalence varies by age, with younger people less likely to be obese than middle-aged adults. Adults aged 18 to 24 have the lowest obesity rates (19.5%), while those aged 45 to 54 have the highest rates (39.2%).

There is a common misconception that obesity is the result of a lack of willpower and poor diet and exercise. In fact, obesity is a complex disease with many factors contributing to obesity, such as genetics, certain medications, lack of sleep, gut microbiome, stress, food access, safe places to play, and health care. Understanding these factors can help us identify potential prevention and treatment strategies.

Returning to the U.S. data, the number of obese people in the U.S. continues to grow, affecting nearly every state and every ethnicity. Even areas with lower obesity rates, such as Colorado, have seen an increase in obesity rates. The findings call for a coordinated, multifaceted approach to address obesity at all levels.

For primary care providers (PCPs), the significant health consequences of obesity are now well known, including diabetes, hypertension, heart disease, and cancer. Therefore, considering obesity as an underlying cause may be an effective approach for many of the chronic conditions that PCPs attempt to address. As more people are affected by obesity, PCPs can also play an important role in promoting healthy weight and preventing obesity.