The study, led by researchers from the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), analyzed data from over 10,000 adults participating in the NHANES from 2015 to 2016. The researchers used a new definition of obesity, which takes into account the percentage of body fat rather than just weight or body mass index (BMI). According to this new definition, obesity is defined as a body fat percentage of 30% or higher for men and 35% or higher for women.
Rising Obesity Rates Pose Significant Health Risks
The study's findings suggest that more than 75% of US adults may meet the criteria for obesity under the new definition, with men and women experiencing significant weight gain over the past few decades. The researchers note that the rising obesity rates are particularly concerning, as excess body fat is a major risk factor for chronic diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, and certain types of cancer.
The study's lead author, Dr. Kirsten Herrick, emphasizes the importance of adopting a more accurate definition of obesity, which can help healthcare providers identify and treat individuals at risk. "This new definition of obesity has the potential to lead to better health outcomes by allowing healthcare providers to identify individuals who are at risk of developing chronic diseases," Dr. Herrick explains.
Experts Warn of the Consequences of Inaction
Experts warn that the rising numbers of obese individuals could have devastating consequences for the nation's healthcare system and economy. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the cost of obesity-related illnesses in the US is estimated to be over $147 billion annually.
"The consequences of inaction are severe," notes Dr. James Marks, a public health expert at the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. "If we don't take aggressive action to prevent and treat obesity, we will continue to see rising rates of chronic diseases, which will put a huge burden on our healthcare system and economy."
National Response to the Obesity Crisis
The study's findings have sparked calls for a national response to the obesity crisis. Experts are urging policymakers to implement evidence-based interventions aimed at reducing obesity rates, including increasing access to healthy food options, promoting physical activity, and improving healthcare services.
"We need to take a comprehensive approach to addressing the obesity crisis," notes Dr. Herrick. "This includes increasing access to healthy food options, promoting physical activity, and improving healthcare services to support individuals in maintaining a healthy weight."
As the nation grapples with the implications of the study's findings, experts are urging policymakers to take immediate action to address the obesity crisis. With the new definition of obesity revealing alarming numbers, it is clear that a national response is needed to prevent and treat obesity and mitigate its devastating consequences.