Obesity
Adults
Note
*: Statistically unstable
HHSA Regions: Health and Human Services Agency regions
Data not available:
Race-Ethnicity, for American Indian or Alaska Native, and Native Hawaiian or other Pacific Islander
Race-Ethnicity categories:
Latino, While (non-latino), Black or African American (non-latino), Aian (non-latino), Multi-Race: Two or More Races (non-latino)
Source:
California Health Interview Survey (Download date: 12/7/2023)
Indicator criteria: Body mass index 30.0 or higher
What is the indicator?
This indicator – the percentage of adults ages 18 and older who are obese – measures those adults at higher risk for health conditions related to their weight and body mass index (BMI). These data are routinely reported in the California Health Interview Survey (CHIS).
Why is this important?
Being over healthy weight can have short- and long-term consequences for adults of any age. More than 40% of US adults are obese. Reflecting both genetic and behavioral factors, having obese parents places a child at increased risk for being overweight or obese throughout life. Obesity is associated with increased risk for adult chronic conditions including heart disease, Type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and cancer. Factors affecting this intergenerational, life course trajectory include trauma and adverse childhood experiences, poor nutrition, and lack of physical activity/exercise. Social determinants linked to obesity include poverty, parental education, residential location, availability of safe recreational areas, and access to nutritious food and health care.
What strategies can make a difference?
These evidence-based strategies are used across the country to address weight and obesity:
- Establish local fitness and walking clubs, nutrition workshops, and gardening opportunities at the community level.
- Enhance the accessibility and affordability of fresh fruits and vegetables for households and educational institutions.
- Encourage eligible families to engage in programs like the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP, also referred to as CalFresh in California) and WIC, facilitating their access to nutritious food options.
- Promote tax credits and incentives to foster the growth and expansion of farmer’s markets, farm-to-school initiatives, community gardens, and similar efforts within economically disadvantaged neighborhoods.
- Encourage employers to support health education, interventions for healthy weight management, establishment of fitness facilities, and provision of subsidized health club memberships.