Obesity - United States, 1999-2010

Obesity is a major public health problem affecting adults and children in the United States. Since 1960, the prevalence of adult obesity in the United States has nearly tripled, from 13% in 1960-1962 to 36% during 2009-2010. Since 1970, the prevalence of obesity has more than tripled among children, from 5% in 1971-1974 to 17% in 2009-2010. Although the prevalence of obesity is high among all U.S. population groups, substantial disparities exist among racial/ethnic minorities and vary on the basis of age, sex, and socioeconomic status.