What percentage of the US population is classified as obese?

The classification of obesity in the United States is based on body mass index (BMI), where a BMI of 30 or higher is considered obese. As of recent statistics, the prevalence of obesity among adults in the U.S. is approximately 41.9%, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). While the percentage of 35% reflects earlier estimates, the current data indicates a larger proportion of the population is classified as obese.

Understanding this statistic is crucial for healthcare providers, as it highlights the significant public health challenge posed by obesity, which is associated with various comorbidities such as heart disease, diabetes, and certain cancers. This context emphasizes the importance of intervention and prevention strategies to address obesity at both individual and community levels. Thus, recognizing that around 40% of the population is classified as obese aligns with the latest public health data and reflects the growing concern regarding obesity in the U.S. population.