Obesity is still on the rise among American adults

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American adults are gaining weight, according to data from the CDC. Twelve U.S. states now have obesity rates of 35% or higher, compared with just six states in 2017 and nine states in 2018. Experts say the trend is particularly concerning because adults with obesity are more prone to severe outcomes from COVID-19.

According to the CDC report, racial and ethnic minority groups are disproportionately affected by obesity. Prevalence rates nationwide were

• 40% among non-Hispanic black adults
• 34% among Hispanic adults
• 30% among non-Hispanic white adults.

The report was based on self-reported height and weight data and broken down by race, ethnicity, and location. CDC officials recommended a number of strategies for American adults to cut down on obesity, including eating a healthy diet, increasing physical activity, getting enough good-quality sleep at night, and reducing stress levels.