From the Guidelines
Approximately 42% of US adults are obese, according to the most recent data from 2023. This figure is based on a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 30 or higher, which is a commonly used definition of obesity 1. The prevalence of obesity in the US is a significant public health concern, as it is associated with increased rates of type 2 diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular disease, sleep disorders, osteoarthritis, and premature death. Some key points to consider include:
- Obesity is defined as a BMI of 30 or greater, with lower thresholds for Asian populations (BMI ≥25-27.5) 1
- Individuals with obesity have higher rates of incident cardiovascular disease, with cardiovascular event rates of 20.21 per 1000 person-years in men with a BMI of 30 to 39, compared to 13.72 per 1000 person-years in men with a normal BMI 1
- A 5% to 10% weight loss can improve systolic blood pressure by about 3 mm Hg for those with hypertension, and may decrease hemoglobin A1c by 0.6% to 1% for those with type 2 diabetes 1 The rising obesity rate is attributed to multiple factors, including sedentary lifestyles, increased consumption of processed foods high in calories, larger portion sizes, and environmental factors that make healthy choices difficult. Public health efforts continue to focus on promoting balanced nutrition, regular physical activity, and creating environments that support healthy behaviors to address this widespread health issue.
From the Research
Obesity Prevalence in the US
- There are no direct statistics provided in the given studies regarding the percentage of the US population that is obese.
- However, the studies suggest that obesity is a growing health problem in the US, with severe obesity and related diseases being very common 2.
- The studies focus on the treatment of obesity, including pharmacotherapy and bariatric surgery, indicating a significant need for effective obesity management strategies in the US population.
Treatment of Obesity
- Several studies discuss the effectiveness of anti-obesity medications, such as orlistat, liraglutide, and lorcaserin, in reducing weight and improving cardiometabolic parameters 3, 4, 5.
- Bariatric surgery is also considered a viable option for weight loss, with substantial evidence indicating its efficacy and safety 2.
- The choice of treatment depends on various factors, including the patient's health status, medical history, and personal preferences.