West Virginia Has the Highest Obesity Rate of Any State in the Country

Special Report

Published: March 30, 2023 10:30 am

This article was written with the assistance of A.I. technology, and has been edited and fact-checked by Colman Andrews.

West Virginia has the highest obesity rate of any state in the country, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and this is having a major impact on the health of residents. Obesity is a leading cause of preventable death in the United States, and it is a major risk factor for Type 2 diabetes and COVID-19 mortality. Some 13% of adults in the state have diabetes, and West Virginia has one of the highest rates of COVID-19 mortality in the country.

The state’s high obesity rate is likely due to a combination of factors, including poverty, lack of access to healthy foods, and lack of exercise opportunities. In West Virginia, 29.5% of adults don’t exercise, and 42.5% of adults don’t get enough sleep. This lack of physical activity and rest can lead to weight gain.

West Virginia needs to take action to address its obesity epidemic. This will require improving access to healthy foods and opportunities for physical activity, as well as increasing awareness of the dangers of obesity. Only by taking these steps will the state be able to improve the health of its residents.

Click here to see all the most obese states in America.

Take Charge of Your Retirement In Just A Few Minutes (Sponsor)

Retirement planning doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. The key is finding expert guidance—and SmartAsset’s simple quiz makes it easier than ever for you to connect with a vetted financial advisor.

Here’s how it works:

Answer a Few Simple Questions. Tell us a bit about your goals and preferences—it only takes a few minutes!
Get Matched with Vetted Advisors Our smart tool matches you with up to three pre-screened, vetted advisors who serve your area and are held to a fiduciary standard to act in your best interests. Click here to begin
Choose Your Fit Review their profiles, schedule an introductory call (or meet in person), and select the advisor who feel is right for you.

Why wait? Start building the retirement you’ve always dreamed of. Click here to get started today!