The Skinny on Obesity Rates and the U.S. Economy

摘要

Obesity rates in the United States are among the highest in the world. In the current recession, the longest in the U.S. since World War II, some Americans have reacted to their economic woes by dropping gym memberships and showing less interest in eating healthier, both luxuries they have decided to do without. Socioeconomic factors therefore might be important predictors of obesity rates [defined as the percentage of U.S. adults with a body mass index (BMI) greater than or equal to 30]. In 2007, obesity rates were lowest in the states of Colorado (18.7%), Connecticut (21.2%), Massachusetts and Vermont (21.3%). Three states-Tennessee, Alabama, and Mississippi-had a prevalence of obesity greater than 30%.