Nearly half the U.S. population will be obese by 2030

New data that estimate rates of obesity at the state level in the U.S. find that by 2030, nearly half of all Americans will be obese. Here’s more: 

• Overall prevalence: The prevalence of obesity will be higher than 50% in 29 states in the next 10 years, and no state will have an obesity rate of less than 35%. 
• Demographic trends: Severe obesity (BMI of 35 or higher) is likely to be the most common form of obesity among women, black people, and those with household incomes of less than $50,000.  
• State trends: Oklahoma, Alabama, and Arkansas are projected to have an obesity rate of nearly 60%. Hawaii, New York, and Massachusetts — with obesity rates of around 40% — are projected to have the lowest rates.