The Obesity Epidemic Escalates in the U.S.

The 11th annual State of Obesity report from the Trust for America's Health and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation shows that states such as Alaska, Delaware, Idaho, New Jersey, Tennessee and Wyoming are still struggling to tackle increased levels of weight gain. Furthermore, no states have been able to quite help the problem.

"Obesity in America is at a critical juncture. Obesity rates are unacceptably high, and the disparities in rates are profoundly troubling," said Dr. Jeffrey Levi executive director of TFAH, in a news release. "We need to intensify prevention efforts starting in early childhood, and do a better job of implementing effective policies and programs in all communities - so every American has the greatest opportunity to have a healthy weight and live a healthy life."

Obesity rates have climbed to nearly 30 percent of the population in 20 states, according to the recent data. Mississippi and West Virginia carry the highest rate of adult obesity at 35.1 percent, with Arkansas coming to a close second at 34.6 percent. The number of adults in the United States who are also now considered "severely" obese has quadrupled in the last 30 years.

"While adult rates are stabilizing in many states, these data suggest that our overall progress in reversing America's obesity epidemic is uneven and fragile," said Dr. Risa Lavizzo-Mourey, RWJF president and CEO. "A growing number of cities and states have reported decreases in obesity among children, showing that when we make comprehensive changes to policies and community environments, we can build a Culture of Health that makes healthy choices the easy and obvious choices for kids and adults alike."

Other findings showed that obesity rates have increased among some age and racial/ethnic groups in the United States, particularly among baby boomers and black communities.

More information regarding the report can be seen here.