U.S. Obesity Rates Show First Decline In Over A Decade

Nineteen states recorded adult obesity rates of 35% or higher in 2024, marking the first decrease in more than ten years from 23 states in 2023, according to Trust for America’s Health analysis of CDC data released Thursday. Colorado maintained the lowest rate at 25% while West Virginia topped 40%. No state showed statistically significant changes between 2023 and 2024, following 18 states with significant increases over the previous five years. “It’s too soon to call it a trend,” said Dr. J. Nadine Gracia, TFAH president and chief executive. Before 2013, no state reached 35% adult obesity rates, but twelve states hit that mark by 2019. Recent federal funding cuts and staff reductions could threaten progress, Gracia warned. Experts suggest obesity medications like Wegovy and Zepbound may contribute to improvements. (Story URL)