Description of Indicator
The obesity rate of adults over a three-year period is another health and health care indicator. Adults are considered to be obese with a Body Mass Index (BMI) greater or equal to 30.
Why is it important?
Obesity is a significant public health issue nationally. Adults who are obese have a greater chance of developing various diseases or other health ailments that impact life expectancy. Poor health has an economic cost, affecting the workforce, social service supports, and health care resources.
How is the region performing?
Pike, Monroe, Susquehanna, and Wayne counties have constantly had a slightly higher adult obesity rate than the other two geographies. In recent years, the adult obesity rate has remained around 33 percent regionally and statewide. The adult obesity rate has increased overall from the 2015-2017 period to the 2020-2022 period.