- West Virginia has been identified as the state reporting the most adults classed as obese, with 41% having a BMI of 30.0 or higher.
- 33.6% of the adult general population in the US have a BMI of 30.0 or higher based on reported height or weight.
- Colorado is the state where adults’ obesity rates are the lowest, with only 25% reporting a BMI of 30.0 or above.
New research has named the states facing the highest obesity rates, with it revealed as being the biggest problem in West Virginia.
The study, conducted by free fitness app Flex AI, analyzed data from America’s Health Rankings on the percentage of adults with a body mass index of 30.0 or higher based on reported height and weight, to identify the states this is the biggest issue.
The American obesity epidemic has been growing over the past decade, as the country increasingly struggles with weight management.
Obesity can lead to a multitude of serious medical conditions, such as heart disease and stroke, which can impact life expectancy.
According to the findings, West Virginia is battling with obesity the most, with 41% of adult residents in this weight class, compared to the rate of 33.6% for the nation.
It appears to be of roughly the same level of concern for both men and women, with 40.5% and 41.6%, respectively, having a BMI of 30.0 or above, suggesting any measurements being implemented to tackle this need to target both equally.
Louisiana has the second biggest problem with obesity, with 40.1% of adults facing this health issue. Oklahoma follows very closely in third, with obesity levels almost identical, with 40% of adults living in the state classed as obese.
The ten states with the highest percentage of adults reporting obesity
At the other end of the scale, obesity is of least concern in Colorado, as only 25% of the adult population have a BMI of 30.0 or higher.
Hawaii has the second lowest percentage of adults classed as obese at 25.9%.
Vermont is the third state where obesity levels are most under control with 26.8% of adults considered to be in this weight bracket.
The ten states with the lowest percentage of adults reporting obesity
Commenting on the findings, Amin Niri, CEO of Flex AI says:
“The US is one of the most obese countries in the world, with its ranking significantly higher when focusing on high-income countries.
“While there are numerous factors which play a part in this, the large portion sizes consumed by many Americans and inactive lifestyles are largely responsible.
“The combination of a higher calorie intake combined with less movement to burn through the excess inevitably results in weight gain.
“It is recommended adults engage in moderate aerobic activity for at least 150 minutes a week, or vigorous aerobic activity for at least 75 minutes.
“Small changes in your routine can help you achieve this, without having to drastically alter your lifestyle. For example, by doing a 20-minute workout before getting ready for the day or going for walk after you finish work when the weather is nice.”
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