More than a quarter of Americans (26.7%) are obese, according to Gallup. Obesity peaks at age 45-64; 30.8% of Americans in that age range are obese. Americans aged 18-29 (18.2%) are least likely to be obese.
Blacks are more likely than other Americans of the same age to be obese. Blacks aged 30-64 are significantly more likely than their peers to be obese.
Unlike those of other racial/ethnic groups, obesity in Asians increases with age, with those aged 65 and older the most likely to be obese.
Obesity and health are closely tied to Americans’ estimation of their own wellbeing. This may explain why Blacks rate their wellbeing at 63.5, which is lower than Asians’ (69.9), Whites’ (66.8), and Hispanics’ ratings (64.9).
Source: “Obesity Peaks In Middle Age,” Gallup Poll, Elizabeth Mendes, Analyst, 901 F St. NW, Washington, DC 20004; 202-715-3030; www.galluppoll.com. Price: Available online at no charge.
© Copyright 2011, EPM Communications, Inc. May not be reproduced without written consent of publisher.