F as in Fat

at 8:44 AM

Adult obesity rates have increased in 28 states in past year, and decreased only in Washington D.C.  More than two-thirds of states have adult obesity rates above 25%.  In contrast, in 1991, no state had an obesity rate above 20%.   This is according to the report published recently: F as in fat: How Obesity Threatens America's Future.  The report also highlights ethnic and regional disparities.  Adult obesity rates in African Americans and Latinos were higher than for Caucasians in at least 40 states.  Of those earning $50,000 or more per year, 24.5% were obese, whereas 35% of adults earning $15,000 per year were obese.  Mississippi had the highest rates for adults; almost 34%.

Additional findings:

1. Adult obesity rates for African Americans are at 40% in nine states, 35% in 34 states, and 30% in 43 states and D.C.

2. Ten of the eleven states with the highest rates of diabetes are in the South.

3. Eight states (Alabama, Arkansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, Oklahoma, Tennessee and W. Virginia) have obesity rates exceeding 30%.  Last year there were only 4 states with above 30% obesity rates.

4. Colorado has the lowest obesity rate at 19.1%.