Severe Obesity Among Women Is on the Rise

Obesity rates in the United States remain alarmingly high, with severe cases particularly on the rise among women, according to new government research. A 2021-2023 survey of 6,000 people found that the overall obesity rate is approximately 40%, with nearly 1 in 10 Americans experiencing severe obesity. Women are almost twice as likely to suffer from severe obesity compared to men.

The study revealed that the general obesity rate has not seen a substantial shift since the previous 2017-2020 survey. This suggests that newly available weight-loss drugs like Wegovy and Zepbound have not yet had a measurable impact. Dr. Samuel Emmerich of the CDC explained, "We simply can't see down to that detailed level to prescription medication use and compare that to changes in obesity prevalence."

The study also highlighted the stark disparities in obesity rates across different education levels and regions. While almost 32% of individuals with a bachelor's degree or higher were classified as obese, this figure jumped to 45% for those with some college or less. The Midwest and South recorded the highest regional obesity rates, with West Virginia topping the list at over 41%. (This story was generated by Newser's AI chatbot. Source: the AP)