Obesity Rate Spike in Texas

A new analysis by Invigor Medical, using CDC data, shows that obesity rates have climbed across all age groups in the U.S. since 2013, with middle-aged adults most affected. Nationally, adults ages 45–54 saw the sharpest rise, up 7.1 percentage points to an obesity rate of 41.2%, now the highest of any age group.

For Texas:

• The state’s overall obesity rate increased from 30.6% in 2013 to 34.2% in 2023 (+3.6 percentage points).

• The 45–54 age group drove the biggest spike, jumping 7.5 percentage points, from 35.3% to 42.8%.

• This mirrors the national trend, where middle-aged adults are the most affected demographic.

Broader findings:

• Younger adults (ages 25–34 and 18–24) are seeing the fastest increases in many states, suggesting obesity challenges are starting earlier in life.

• The Southeast continues to lead the nation in highest obesity prevalence, but the steepest recent increases were recorded in states like New Mexico and Minnesota.

• Colorado remains the leanest state (24.6%), while West Virginia tops the list at 41.7%.

While promising new medications like GLP-1 drugs are emerging as tools against obesity, only a small share of adults currently use them. The report emphasizes that effective strategies will need to be age- and state-specific to slow the rising trend.