5 Most Overweight States in the US

In this article, we will be taking a look at the 5 most overweight states in the US. If you wish to learn about more, head straight to the 20 Most Overweight States in the US.

5. Mississippi  

Obesity Rate: 39.1% 

Mississippi faces significant challenges with obesity, with approximately 40% of adults classified as obese. Obesity-related healthcare costs are substantial, reaching $925 million in 2008, and projected to rise to $3.9 billion by 2018 if trends continue. Obese individuals incur 40% more in medical costs per year compared to non-obese individuals.

4. Oklahoma  

Obesity Rate: 39.4% 

Oklahoma faces significant challenges with obesity, ranking among the most obese states in the US. The state’s obesity rate is alarming, with approximately 40% of its population affected as of 2023. Obesity is linked to various health issues in Oklahoma, including cardiovascular diseases, type 2 diabetes, and joint problems. 

3. Alabama 

Obesity Rate: 39.9% 

Alabama faces significant challenges with obesity, ranking third-highest in the nation for obesity rates. This issue is further highlighted by higher obesity rates among adults aged 45-64 and approximately 36% of white adults being obese. 

2. Kentucky 

Obesity Rate: 40.3% 

Kentucky faces significant challenges with obesity, ranking it among the top obese states in America. Approximately 40.9% of women and 39.8% of men in Kentucky are classified as obese. Children aged 10 to 17 in the state also have the highest obesity rate for their age group in the US. Overall, 72.3% of Kentucky adults are either obese or overweight, ranking second in the nation. Common reasons for obesity in Kentucky include limited access to healthy foods, high consumption of processed and fast foods, and inadequate levels of physical activity among adults and children.

1. West Virginia 

Obesity Rate: 40.6% 

West Virginia stands first among the most obese states in the US, with obesity rates reaching 41.0%. Challenges contributing to this issue include limited access to healthy food options and low rates of physical activity. Common reasons for obesity in West Virginia include lack of access to healthy food retailers, low rates of physical activity, unhealthy dietary habits, and limited availability of nutritious options. While both men and women are affected by obesity in West Virginia, statistics indicate that women face a higher risk of obesity-related health issues compared to men, making West Virginia one of the states with most overweight people.  

Insider Monkey focuses on uncovering the best investment ideas of hedge funds and insiders. Please subscribe to our free daily enewsletter to get the latest investment ideas from hedge funds’ investor letters by entering your email address below. You can also take a peek at the 25 Countries with the Least Access to Safe Drinking Water and the 15 Biggest Bilingual Cities in the US.