The State of the Problem (Quick Facts)

• About 40.3% of U.S. adults had obesity in 2021–2023.
• Obesity affects ~19.7% of U.S. youth (14.7 million kids); recent data shows 17% of youth ages 6–17 with obesity in 2022–2023.
• In 2023, all states had adult obesity rates above 20%; the Midwest (36.0%) and the South (34.7%) were the highest.
• Economic toll: Estimated $425.5B annually in combined medical and productivity costs.
• Ultra-processed foods account for over 55% of Americans’ calories; youth average 62%.

“Obesity raises risk for type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and more — and it widens health inequities.”

What Works (Evidence-Based Playbook)

1. Start with Proven Lifestyle Targets

• Physical activity: Adults should get 150–300 min/week moderate or 75–150 min/week vigorous activity plus strength training 2+ days/week.

• Nutrition pattern: Base meals on vegetables, fruits, whole grains, beans/lentils, nuts/seeds; limit added sugars, saturated fat, and sodium.

• Practical tip: Crowd out ultra-processed foods with beans, oats, leafy greens, olive oil, and berries.

• Use Structured, High-Touch Programs

• Adults: USPSTF recommends intensive, multicomponent behavioral interventions for BMI ≥30.

• Prediabetes: The CDC-recognized Diabetes Prevention Program shows a 58% risk reduction with modest weight loss and regular activity.

• Kids & teens: AAP 2023 guideline recommends annual screening and timely family-based interventions.

• Consider Medications (and Surgery) When Indicated

For those with significant complications, anti-obesity medications and/or metabolic-bariatric surgery can be considered alongside lifestyle changes.

Get Started: A Simple Week-One Action Plan

Daily anchors:

• Plate formula: ½ veggies, ¼ lean protein, ¼ high-fiber carbs + healthy fats.

• Movement: 30 minutes brisk walking most days + 2 short strength sessions weekly.

• Sleep & stress: Aim 7–9 hours; add 5–10 minutes of breathwork or short walks after meals.

Weekly anchors:

• Join a CDC-recognized DPP or private Lifestyle change forum like the Mindful Living club, if you have prediabetes or risk factors.

• See your PCP about intensive behavioral programs or medications if needed.

• For families: Ask pediatricians about AAP-recommended family-based programs.

Policy & Community Levers

• Expand coverage for intensive behavioral treatment and National DPP.

• Improve access to safe places to move and affordable whole foods.

• Support clear food labeling and limit marketing of ultra-processed products to children.

References

• CDC/NCHS Data Brief 508: Adult obesity prevalence 2021–2023.
• CDC: Childhood obesity facts; NSCH 2022–2023.
• CDC: Adult obesity prevalence maps, 2023.
• Dall TM et al., 2024: Economic burden analyses.
• HHS: Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans, 2nd ed.
• USDA/HHS: Dietary Guidelines for Americans 2020–2025.
• USPSTF (2018): Behavioral interventions for adults with obesity.
• NIH/NIDDK & CDC: Diabetes Prevention Program outcomes.
• AAP (2023): Childhood obesity evaluation & treatment guideline. Washington Post summary of CDC data: Ultra-processed food consumption.