A map comparing obesity rates in U.S. states and European countries in 2024 has gained viral attention online after being shared on Reddit.
Data from the World Population Review for the U.S. and the World Health Organization (WHO) for Europe reveal that America continues to struggle with significantly higher obesity rates when compared to European countries.
The color-coded visualization shared by Brilliant Maps shows that in many U.S. states, obesity rates exceed 30 percent, with some surpassing 40 percent. Southern and Midwestern states, such as Mississippi and West Virginia, report the highest levels, while Western states like Colorado and Hawaii have comparatively lower rates, though still above most European nations.
Comparatively, obesity rates in most European countries remain below 25 percent, with some nations, particularly in Southern and Western Europe, reporting levels under 15 percent.
The map gained viral attention on Reddit's r/europe subreddit from people interested in comparing their home stats to other locations.
What's the Difference?
A range of dietary, cultural, and lifestyle factors contribute to the disparity. European countries, especially those in the Mediterranean region, emphasize a diet rich in fresh produce, whole grains, and healthy fats, such as extra virgin olive oil.
Additionally, much of European food culture prioritizes home-cooked meals and social eating, which may lead to healthier consumption patterns. The smaller portion sizes in Europe compared to the U.S. also play a role.
Similarly, urban planning and transportation infrastructure further influence obesity rates. Many European cities are more walkable and offer extensive public transit, encouraging daily physical activity. Additionally, European regulations on food marketing, additives, and school nutrition programs help promote healthier lifestyles.
However, it isn't all positive in Europe either. Despite overall lower obesity rates than the U.S., the problem is growing. Many European countries report obesity rates approaching 20 percent or more, particularly in Eastern and Northern Europe. Romania and Hungary have rates higher than states like South Carolina and Texas, while the United Kingdom has a higher obesity rate than New Jersey, Florida and California.
Signs of Change in the U.S.
While this data paints a concerning picture for the U.S., there are signs of improvement. For the first time in over a decade, American obesity rates showed a slight decline in 2023. Nationally, obesity rates fell from 46 percent in 2022 to 45.6 percent in 2023. According to a new JAMA Health Forum study, the mean population body mass index (BMI) had been rising since 2013 but began stabilizing in 2022 before declining in 2023.
A key factor in this shift may be the rise of GLP-1 weight loss medications such as Ozempic and Wegovy, which suppress appetite and contribute to weight loss. While these medications have gained popularity, concerns remain regarding side effects like nausea, stomach pain, and digestive issues.
Additionally, studies indicate that many patients regain lost weight once they stop taking the drug. In a 2022 study, patients who discontinued semaglutide (the active ingredient in Ozempic) regained two-thirds of their lost weight within a year.
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