The obesity crisis in the United States continues to rise, with some states reaching 40% of the population being obese. These high numbers will have societal, economic, and health-related consequences unless policymakers implement new programs. In this article, we’ll discuss the top 10 most obese states in America and we’ll examine the factors contributing to this issue.
How is Obesity Measured?
The Body Mass Index (BMI) is a tool commonly used to classify individuals into one of the five weight categories. This metric is calculated by dividing someone’s weight by the square of their height. Here are the different categories:
- Underweight: Less than 18.5
- Healthy weight: 18.5 to 25
- Overweight: 25 to 29.9.
- Obese: 30 or higher.
- Severe obesity: 40 or higher.
So, although obesity is described as a BMI of 30 or higher, there are a lot of limitations in this calculation. Experts argue that this approach overlooks important factors such as muscle mass, fat distribution, or other health differences. However, since it’s the only metric available, it remains the standard for classification.
Obesity in America
To understand the huge impact that obesity has had in America in the last years, let’s look at some statistics:
- In the last 30 years, obesity rates have more than doubled.
- In 1999, 4.7% of the population was severely obese (a BMI of 40 or higher). In 2020, the number has risen to 9.2%.
- 19.7% of children and teens are obese.
Within America, the regions with the highest obesity rates are the Midwest (36%) and the South (34.7%). This is largely due to factors such as the popularity of fast food, increased reliance on cars and more screen time leading to sedentary lifestyles, and socioeconomic issues, such as lacking access to healthy food and spaces for physical activity.
A very common concept in most obese states is the term “food deserts”. This means that, because of the rural environments in these states, residents have a hard time finding affordable and nutritious food. Usually, the lack of healthy grocery stores and farmer’s markets leads to people buying fast food and processed meals, which contributes to rising obesity rates.
Top 10 Most Obese States in 2024
1. West Virginia (41%)
West Virginia not only has the highest obesity rate in the U.S. it also leads in type 2 diabetes rates (15.7%). The prevalence of food deserts and limited access to healthy food push residents to rely on fast food and pre-packaged meals. Additionally, the high poverty rate means that inexpensive, calorie-dense foods are more accessible, further contributing to weight gain.
2. Kentucky (40.3%)
In Kentucky, high poverty rates are not only limiting access to healthy food but also to education about healthy eating habits. Apart from relying on cheaper, unhealthy food options, the traditional meals from the area are usually fried food with a lot of calories. Furthermore, the distribution of rural areas makes it harder to access spaces to practice physical activity.
3. Alabama (39.9%)
Obesity in Alabama is largely driven by the state’s love of calorie-dense Southern cuisine, including large portions of high-fat foods. Additionally, sedentary lifestyles are common, particularly in rural and suburban areas where there are few places for walking or outdoor exercise. The hot and humid climate further discourages physical activity, making it harder for residents to maintain a healthy weight.
4. Oklahoma (39.4%)
Oklahoma struggles with high rates of heart disease and type 2 diabetes, partially due to a lack of access to fresh produce and an overabundance of unhealthy food options. Many areas in Oklahoma are classified as food deserts, and limited healthcare access contributes to the state’s obesity problem, with many residents unable to receive proper nutrition education or medical support.
5. Mississippi (39.1%)
Mississippi’s obesity rate is deeply tied to its food culture, which centers around meals high in calories, fat, and sugar. The state also faces significant challenges with food deserts, where healthy options are scarce. Together, these factors have contributed to Mississippi’s position among the states with the highest obesity rates.
6. Arkansas (38.7%)
In Arkansas, high poverty levels restrict access to healthy food and opportunities for physical activity. The state has fewer venues for exercise, and residents face challenges in accessing affordable nutritious food. As a result, many people rely on cheap, calorie-dense options, which significantly contribute to the state’s high obesity rate.
7. Louisiana (38.6%)
Louisiana’s struggle with obesity is compounded by its rich, calorie-heavy regional cuisine. The state’s economic challenges also make it difficult for many residents to access healthier food choices or engage in regular exercise, contributing to the state’s high obesity levels.
8. South Dakota (38.4%)
South Dakota’s obesity rate is influenced by its largely rural population, which faces limited access to fresh food and gyms. With long distances between rural areas and grocery stores that offer healthy options, many residents find it difficult to maintain a balanced diet. Additionally, the state has limited healthcare services to help address obesity-related issues.
9. Ohio (37.7%)
Ohio’s obesity rates are partly a result of industrial decline, which has reduced economic opportunities and public health funding. Many communities in the state struggle with limited access to affordable, nutritious food, which contributes to higher obesity rates. These economic and social challenges make it harder for residents to maintain healthy lifestyles.
10. Iowa (36.4%)
Iowa’s food culture is heavily centered around dairy products like cheese and butter. While dairy can be part of a healthy diet, excessive consumption of high-fat dairy can lead to an increased calorie intake and weight gain. Combined with limited physical activity in rural areas, this dietary pattern has contributed to Iowa’s obesity rates.
The Future of Obesity in America
Obesity rates are expected to keep rising if nothing changes, with severe obesity becoming increasingly prevalent. This will not only impact public health, but it will also severely impact the economic costs of obesity-related healthcare in the country. Treatment of chronic conditions such as cardiovascular diseases or type 2 diabetes will have a long-term financial impact on the country, affecting especially families with lower incomes.
To fight this public health epidemic, it’s essential to make healthy food more accessible, especially for people of low economic backgrounds. Similarly, providing infrastructure in rural areas so that residents can practice physical activity or walk, such as parks, or gyms will help combat sedentary lifestyles.
Another key element to reduce obesity rates is education. It’s important to provide information to educate citizens about healthy eating habits, physical activities, and the risks associated with obesity. People struggling with obesity should have access to services such as counseling, nutrition programs, and weight management plans to deal with the root cause of the problem.
Additionally, medical procedures such as the Spatz gastric balloon can kickstart a weight loss journey. This non-surgical device reduces appetite and helps individuals lose weight in a more gradual, sustainable way. Considering this option while adding other lifestyle changes in their life can help fight obesity rates.
