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The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has released the 2024 Adult Obesity Prevalence Maps, revealing that obesity remains a major public health concern across all 50 states. According to the new data, at least 25% of adults in every state are living with obesity, emphasizing persistent challenges tied to chronic disease and health equity.
Obesity Trends in Los Angeles County
In Los Angeles County, nearly 30% of adults are classified as obese or overweight. The data also highlight clear disparities across demographic groups:
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• Sex: 31% of females vs. 28% of males
• Race/Ethnicity: Latinx (39%), Black (40%), Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander (61%), White (21%)
• Geography: Antelope Valley (37%) and South LA region (41%)
• Poverty Level: 40% among households at 0–99% FPL vs. 24% among households earning 300%+ FPL
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For the first time, CDC presented obesity prevalence by age group. Middle-aged adults (40–59) are about 30% more likely to have obesity than adults aged 18–39 and 25% more likely than those 60 and older.
Why These Findings Matter
These statistics highlight the importance of ensuring affordable health insurance coverage for obesity-related care and chronic condition management. Proposed Medicaid eligibility reductions and possible marketplace premium increases could disproportionately impact LA County residents already at higher risk.
At the same time, the data point to the need for increased investment in prevention—nutrition access, physical activity opportunities, and health education—especially in underserved communities.
Local Efforts to Improve Health Access
Los Angeles County Public Health continues to invest in community-driven programs aimed at improving access to nutritious foods, safe spaces for exercise, and culturally relevant education:
• A $12 million county investment was deployed during the recent federal shutdown to support food banks and community organizations serving low-income families affected by SNAP disruptions.
• The PLACE Program (Policies for Livable Active Communities and Environments) is working with cities and unincorporated areas to improve walkability through sidewalks, crosswalks, and lighted paths. Eight pedestrian plans have been completed so far.
• A pilot program now encourages healthcare providers to offer physical activity prescriptions, connecting high-risk patients to free, outdoor exercise classes at local parks.
“These new CDC findings underscore what we see locally: obesity continues to impact far too many residents, and the burden is not shared equally,” said Barbara Ferrer, Ph.D., M.P.H., M.Ed., Director of the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health. “Structural factors—access to healthy foods, safe neighborhoods, and affordable healthcare—continue to drive inequities. Our goal is to work with community partners so every resident, regardless of ZIP code, can live a healthy life.”
Free and Low-Cost Resources for Residents
Public Health encourages residents to take advantage of available community resources, including:
• Nutrition education workshops
• Local food assistance programs
• Walking groups and free outdoor activity classes
Additional resources can be found at:
http://publichealth.lacounty.gov/nut/
About the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health
The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health works to promote health equity and protect the well-being of more than 10 million residents. With over 5,000 employees and an annual budget of $1.3 billion, the department oversees environmental health, disease control, community health programs, and partnerships that support healthier communities. Public Health is nationally accredited by the Public Health Accreditation Board.
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Medical Disclaimer: This article is for informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider with any questions about a medical condition or treatment.
