CDC has released the 2018 adult obesity prevalence map for all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Guam, and Puerto Rico. The new map shows overall adult obesity prevalence ranges from 23.0% to 39.5%. In 2018, nine states reported obesity prevalence above 35%. This up from seven states in 2017. 

Updated data demonstrate that obesity continues to threaten the health trajectory of the United States. Growing obesity rates also threaten our military readiness. Nationwide, 71% of young people between the ages 17 and 24 do not qualify for military service, and obesity disqualifies 31% of youth from serving, if they so choose. These ineligibility rates are a major reason why the Army faces challenges meeting its annual recruitment goals.

Additional funding is needed for CDC’s Division of Nutrition, Physical Activity, and Obesity to continue efforts to improve nutrition and increase physical activity across the lifespan, with a special focus on young children ages 0-5 years.