Obesity is a major risk factor for many chronic diseases, including heart disease, cancer, and diabetes. The new study is the latest to analyse obesity statistics based on the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, which is carried out by the CDC’s National Center for Health Statistics.
Between 1999 and 2006, the prevalence of obesity among men increased. Between 2003-2004 and 2005-2006, there was no significant change for either women or men. Cynthia Ogden, a CDC researcher and lead author of the study, says, “Since 1999, there appears to have been a leveling off in obesity among women, but the trend is less clear among men. We do know however that the gap between men and women has narrowed in recent years, with men catching up to the higher rates among women.”
Those with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or greater are said to be obese. A person’s BMI is an indication of body fatness and is calculated from height and weight. The study also found that the highest prevalence of obesity is found among people aged 40 to 59. Interestingly, women older than 65 have obesity rates similar to those in the 20 to 39 year old group. In terms of ethnic origin, nearly 53 percent of black women and 51 percent of Mexican women are obese, compared to about 39 percent of non-Hispanic women of similar age.
Janet Collins, director of CDC′s National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, says, “In view of these alarmingly high rates of obesity in all population groups, CDC has made the prevention of obesity one of its top public health priorities. We are actively working in partnership with state and local public health agencies, the nation′s schools, community organisations, businesses, medical systems and faith communities to promote and support healthy eating, physical activity and healthy weight.”
