Which US state has seen the largest increase in obesity since 2013?

New Mexico experienced the largest rise in obesity, with a 33.7 percent increase from 2013 to 2023.

What factors are linked to rising obesity rates in states like New Mexico?

Limited access to fitness facilities is cited as a potential contributing factor to rising obesity rates.

How has the definition of obesity been evolving?

Researchers are investigating updated definitions of obesity that consider more than just BMI, potentially classifying more adults as obese.

Home / Health / Obesity Soars: States See Alarming Rise Since 2013

Obesity Soars: States See Alarming Rise Since 2013

14 Jan

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Summary

Obesity rates increased over 25% in many states from 2013 to 2023.
New Mexico saw the largest obesity increase at 33.7 percent.
Limited fitness facilities may contribute to rising obesity levels.

Obesity Soars: States See Alarming Rise Since 2013

Recent data analysis indicates a substantial rise in obesity rates across numerous U.S. states over the past decade, with many experiencing increases exceeding 25 percent between 2013 and 2023. New Mexico stands out, recording the most significant surge at 33.7 percent, pushing its current obesity rate to 35.3 percent and contributing to one of the nation's highest levels. This trend is observed even in states with better overall health scores, highlighting a widespread public health challenge.

Experts point to factors such as limited access to fitness facilities as potential drivers of this increase. For instance, New Mexico has a low density of 9 fitness facilities per 100,000 residents, correlating with its high obesity rate. Similarly, Minnesota and Oregon have also seen considerable jumps in obesity, with Minnesota experiencing a 30.6 percent rise and Oregon a 26.8 percent increase, despite having more fitness facilities per capita than New Mexico.