Average BMI of Americans Is Increasing

Looks like we all still have some work to do! The population’s average body mass index is increasing, even as more Americans are trying to lose weight, according to findings published in JAMA Network Open (2019; 2 [11], e1915219).

On nine occasions between 1999–2000 and 2015-2016, researchers from multiple universities gathered data from 48,026 participants enrolled in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). Study authors wanted to identify trends in BMI, weight, self-perception and weight loss efforts. Data analysis showed that in 2015–2016, 42% of Americans tried to lose weight (up from 34.3% in 1999–2000), yet the percentage of Americans with obesity was almost 40% (up from 33.7% in 1999–2000). At the same time, fewer people perceived themselves as overweight.

Study authors recommend optimizing adherence by using weight loss strategies that consider a participant’s preferences and abilities.