Rising Obesity Rates in Indiana: Women More Affected Than Men

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Amid calls from political figures like Donald Trump and RFK Jr. to ‘Make America Healthy Again,’ Indiana faces a growing obesity crisis. Obesity is a growing concern across the entire country, and Indiana is no exception.
Data was recently analyzed from America’s Health Rankings. According to the study, obesity is more common in women than in men in the majority of states. In Indiana, 38.7% of women are classified as obese, compared to 36.6% of men. This shows a 2.1% difference, where more women are dealing with rotundness than men.

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Across the country, 72% of states report higher obesity rates in women. Overall, 34.1% of U.S. women are obese compared to 32.6% of men. Tennessee has the largest gap, with 42.7% of women obese, compared to 35.1% of men.

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Being overweight increases the risk of several health problems, such as heart disease and diabetes. It can also shorten life expectancy. Experts suggest that focusing more on health programs aimed at women in states like Indiana could help reduce plumpness.

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Small lifestyle changes, like incorporating daily exercise, can make a big difference. Health professionals recommend at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week. Even short activities, like a 20-minute workout or a walk after work, can help improve health.
Here are key obesity statistics in Indiana:
- Overall Obesity Rate: Indiana’s adult obesity rate is 36.3%, making it one of the higher rates in the country.
- Gender Differences: As mentioned earlier, 38.7% of women in Indiana are classified as obese, compared to 36.6% of men.
- National Ranking: Indiana ranks 15th in stoutness across the U.S., with rates higher than the national average.
- Youth Obesity: About 15% of Indiana’s high school students are considered overweight, highlighting the issue among younger populations.
- Racial Disparities: Obesity affects different racial groups disproportionately. African Americans in Indiana have a rate of about 46%, compared to 35% among white adults.
- Obesity-Related Conditions: Indiana has higher rates of obesity-related health conditions like diabetes (11.3% of adults) and heart disease.
Rising Obesity Rates in Indiana: Women More Affected Than Men was originally published on wibc.com