Adult Obesity Rate Rises in United States

Atlanta, Georgia, U.S.A. -- A study by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) found that obesity among adults in the United States continued its upward trend in 2008. The CDC reported that 26.1% of adults met the criteria for obesity, marking an increase from 25.6% in 2007.

The CDC collected and analyzed the data, derived from national health surveys and related statistical information. These statistics reflect body mass index (BMI) measurements, a common tool used to estimate body fat based on height and weight.

Researchers continue to investigate contributing causes of this increase. Public health officials are monitoring the trend and weighing possible interventions.