New CDC Data Shows Obesity is a Growing Problem in Many States
September 26, 2023
Contact: press@aifcoalition.org
On Thursday, September 21, the Center for Disease Control (CDC) released the CDC 2022 Adult Obesity Prevalence Maps for all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and three U.S. territories. This survey is based on self-reported weight and height from an ongoing telephone interview survey conducted by the CDC and state health departments.
The updated maps emphasize the importance of the AIFC’s mission to promote positive nutrition through holistic, systems-based diet models like the Mediterranean diet, and the prevalent need for population-based policy interventions to ensure all people have access to healthy foods and evidence-based nutrition policy. Combined with data from 2020 and 2021, the 2022 map shows how obesity impacts some groups more than others. There are notable differences by race, education, age, and geographic location. All states and territories had an obesity prevalence of 20 percent, or more than 1 in 5 adults, and 22 states have an adult obesity prevalence at or above 35 percent. Obesity prevalence decreased as level of education increased, and adults aged 45-54 had the highest rates of obesity.
In a statement, Dr. Karen Hacker, director of the CDC’s National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion said, “Our updated maps send a clear message that additional support for obesity prevention and treatment is an urgent priority. Obesity is a disease caused by many factors, including eating patterns, physical activity levels, sleep routines, genetics, and certain medications. This means that there is no one size fits all approach.”
Hon. Susan Molinari and Lucy Calautti, Co-Chairs of the AIFC, have hosted nutrition experts Dr. Paul Gately, Dr. Roberta Re, and Dr. Richard Clemens on their video series, At the Table this year for discussions about the importance of a positive approach based in holistic nutrition which reflects the links between diet, environment, lifestyle, and overall health maintenance. In addition, the AIFC hosted a 2023 Positive Nutrition Roundtable at the Embassy of Italy, followed by a Positive Nutrition Congressional Briefing on Capitol Hill this summer. Both events brought together nutrition experts from around the world to discuss the growing appetite worldwide for responsible portion sizes, balance, and health.
The American Italian Food Coalition is an alliance of more than 450 Italian companies, manufacturers, and trade associations dedicated to ensuring American consumers continue to have access to high-quality, affordable imported Italian products including pasta, coffee, biscuits, and wafers.