US Obesity Rates Are Higher Than Ever Before

Obesity has been a major health problem in the United States for many years, but experts have determined that a greater number of Americans than ever before are now considered obese. Keep reading to learn more about the latest research into US obesity rates.

US Obesity Rates Have Been on the Rise

Research findings have shown that nearly 40% of adults, along with 18.5% of kids are obese, according to their body mass index (BMI). And, according to Whyy, these new rates are the highest numbers that the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey has documented over the last 15 years. Moreover, since 1999, in particular, the US obesity rates have gone up significantly. Back then, only 30.5% of adults and 13.9% of kids were obese.

Obesity Is Worse in Certain Communities

Thanks to this type of research, experts have also realized that US obesity rates are much worse in some rural, low-income, and minority communities around the country. Those parts of the nation might have poor access to health-promoting foods, such as fresh veggies and fruits that can also help maintain a slim waistline. Plus, those communities might not have the resources available to stay active either.

Childhood Obesity Is a Big Problem

Obesity during childhood is a serious problem, too, as obese kids could be affected with this condition long into adulthood. Other than adult obesity, childhood obesity might also increase the risk of some cancers, heart disease, and high blood pressure. Therefore, parents and doctors should work together to prevent kids from becoming obese in the first place, and resolving the problem if it has already developed. It all starts with making smarter, healthier food choices every day, while encouraging children to be more active.

There’s Hope!

For both children and adults in America, the latest US obesity rates don’t need to be discouraging. Instead, using this information as a sign that things need to change is the wise way to go. If you or someone in your family is obese, there are many steps that can be taken to lose the weight and keep it off for good. Talk to your doctor about your options, such as prescription and over-the-counter diet pills, weight loss surgery, and diet and exercise programs that really work. Before you know it, you’ll be doing your part to help bring obesity rates in the US back down.