Obesity rates forecast to soar in America

More than half the people in most of America will be obese by 2030, according to a new study.

The projections by Trust for America's Health and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation cover 39 of the 50 US states. Their forecast goes beyond the 42 per cent national obesity level that US government health officials project by 2030.

About two-thirds of Americans are now overweight. That includes those who are obese, a group that accounts for about 36 per cent. Obesity rates have been holding steady in recent years. The highest rates are in the South and Midwest.

Trust for America's Health said the projections were based on government figures. But their outlook suggests that even in the thinnest state – Colorado, where about one-fifth of residents are obese – 45 per cent are predicted to be obese by 2030. It says New York, at 25 per cent, will jump to 51 per cent and that California, at 24 per cent, will jump to 47 per cent.

Mississippi is expected to keep its crown as the fattest state in the country. The report predicts 67 per cent of its adults will be obese by 2030. That would be an astounding increase from the current 35 per cent.

AP