Number of Overweight Adults

What is This Indicator?

Percentage of Adults w/Body Mass Index 25+
(Vermont Deptartment of Health)

While the percentage of overweight adults has remained relatively constant, the percentage of obese Vermonters has increased has nearly doubled.

According to the Vermont Department of Health, 36% of Vermonters over 20 years old are overweight, with 21% considered obese. The highest rates of obesity are among low-income Vermonters.

Why is it Important?

Obesity is quickly becoming a leading public health challenge in Vermont. Over half of all Vermont adults are overweight or obese, and overweight among children is increasing at an alarming rate.

The CDC Report "Obesity - Halting the Epidemic by Making Health Easier" says "Obesity has physical, psychological, and social consequences in adults and children. Children and adolescents are developing obesity-related diseases, such as type 2 diabetes, that were once seen only in adults. Obese children are more likely to have risk factors for cardiovascular disease, including high cholesterol levels, high blood pressure, and abnormal glucose tolerance."  

The Vermont Department of Health data confirm higher levels of chronic disease among those Vermonters who are obese.