Obesity in the United States is a big problem, and it’s getting bigger. Nearly 3 in 4 adults in the U.S. are now considered overweight or have obesity, according to a 2024 study published in the medical journal The Lancet. That’s a sharp increase since the 1990s, when just over half of adults were living with obesity.
What’s more, there’s no sign that the trend is slowing. The study also predicts rates of overweight and obesity will continue to rise at least through 2050.
“More people are becoming overweight, including children and adults, says Suki Singh, M.D., a family medicine and obesity medicine physician at Henry Ford Health. Dr. Singh explains what’s behind this worrisome trend, and how to fight back against unwanted weight gain.
A Look At Obesity Trends
Doctors define overweight as a body mass index (BMI) over 25. Obesity is a BMI over 30. These conditions used to be considered the result of individual choices—namely, eating too much and exercising too little.
But our view of obesity has evolved. Experts now understand that obesity is a disease, influenced by genetics, hormones, the environment and lifestyle behaviors. Similarly, Dr. Singh says, multiple factors are driving the increase in obesity rates.
“Our lifestyles are much different than those of our ancestors. There’s been a significant increase in sedentary time and screen time,” she says. “Most adults of our generation are just trying to survive getting through their busy days and trying to add physical exercise is no longer a top priority. And children are spending more time on screens than they do playing outside.”
The food industry has also changed, she adds. Portion sizes are bigger, and foods contain more fats, more sugar and more calories. In other words, it’s easier than ever to overeat, especially when it comes to junk food.
Obesity Health Risks
Trying To Lose Weight?
Although overweight and obesity are common, that doesn’t mean we should accept them as the new norm. “The disease of obesity is a silent killer,” Dr. Singh says.
Obesity increases the risk of a host of health problems, including:
- Bone and joint problems
- Diabetes
- High blood pressure
- High cholesterol
- Heart disease
- Sleep apnea
- Some cancers
- Strokes
Of course, not everyone who is overweight or has obesity will develop health problems. Yet as weight goes up, so does the risk. But because the number on the scale is only one measure of health, it’s important to look at the big picture.
“If you’re seeing evidence of elevated blood pressure, joint pain or changes in your blood sugar, it’s time to intervene no matter what your BMI is,” Dr. Singh says.
Weight Loss Tips That Work
While obesity is complex, there are lifestyle changes you can make to help you lose weight or maintain a healthy weight:
Weigh yourself
Dr. Singh recommends stepping on the scale at least once or twice a week. It’s normal for weight to fluctuate a bit.
For instance, a woman’s weight often goes up and down during different phases of her menstrual cycle. But if you check regularly, you’ll be able to recognize patterns—and notice if the number keeps inching upward.
Take action
It’s easy for weight gain to creep up on you. If you see a trend upward, don’t wait to address it.
“Lots of people gain weight over the holidays, for example. Five pounds might not seem like a lot, but it adds up. That 5 pounds a year will equal 25 pounds after 5 years,” she says. “If you are gaining weight, talk to your doctor to get help.”
Plan ahead
Meal planning is an important part of healthy eating. Dr. Singh recommends spending a few minutes each weekend planning your meals for the week.
“Make sure you’re planning out the number of servings of fruits, vegetables, healthy protein, and complex carbs that you’re getting each day,” she says. “Then go grocery shopping with a list so you can meet those healthy targets.”
Read labels
Some snacks that seem healthy actually aren’t. Check food labels to get a sense of how many calories a food contains, as well as things like added sugar and saturated fat.
Snack smarter
Try to keep your pantry free of processed foods like chips, cookies and soda. Instead, stock your kitchen with fresh fruit, precut veggies and nuts. “If you do buy packaged snacks, buy them in single-serving bags so you’re more mindful about portion sizes,” Dr. Singh says.
Get moving
Physical activity is important for maintaining weight—and for overall health. Experts recommend at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise each week. Just like meal planning, it can help to plan out activities ahead of time.
“Figure out where you can squeeze in more activity. Even 10 extra minutes of movement has great health benefits,” Dr. Singh says. “Not only is it helpful for weight, but physical activity can also help you concentrate better at work, improve your mood and reduce food cravings.”
Consider medical interventions
Prescription weight-loss drugs, such as Wegovy® or Zepbound®, can be a helpful weight loss option for some people. And don’t hesitate to talk to your doctor about bariatric surgery as a long-term option, Dr. Singh says.
Those treatments aren’t magic, she adds. People who go those routes still need to make healthy diet and exercise choices. But they can be effective in helping people establish a healthier lifestyle and achieve a healthier weight.
Find Help To Achieve A Healthy Weight
Stigma often prevents people from asking for help with losing weight. But obesity is a disease, and it deserves treatment just like any other illness.
“You don’t have to wait for your annual check-up. If you’re gaining weight, make an appointment,” Dr. Singh says. “Find a doctor who can help you shed light on the causes of your weight gain and help you develop a plan to manage it.”
Reviewed by Suki Singh, M.D., a board certified physician in Family and Obesity Medicine and System Medical Director for Henry Ford Health Weight Management and Obesity Medicine Program. She sees patients at Henry Ford Medical Center-Plymouth.
