U.S. obesity rates are leveling off

Adult obesity rates are showing signs of leveling off, according to the 14th annual “State of Obesity: Better Policies for a Healthier America” report from the Trust for America’s Health (TFAH) and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation (RWJF). However, progress could be eroded if programs are cut and policies are weakened. This year, adult obesity rates exceeded 35% in five states, 30% in 25 states, and 25% in 46 states. As of 2000, no state had an obesity rate above 25%.

In the past year, adult obesity rates increased in four states (Colorado, Minnesota, Washington, and West Virginia), decreased in one state (Kansas), and remained stable in the rest. This supports trends that have shown steadying levels in recent years. Last year was the first time this annual report recorded any declines in adult obesity rates, with four states experiencing declines, and, over time, growth has started to slow. In 2006, rates increased in 31 states; in 2010, rates increased in 16 states.

In addition, the report reviews other studies that have found childhood rates have stabilized over the past decade, and decreased among low-income preschoolers between 2011 and 2014.

“Obesity rates are still far too high, but the progress we’ve seen in recent years is real and it’s encouraging,” said Richard E. Besser, president and CEO of RWJF. “That progress could be easily undermined if leaders and policymakers at all levels don’t continue to prioritize efforts that help all Americans lead healthier lives.”

Report (pdf)