CDC: U.S. blacks most obese, whites least

ATLANTA, July 16 (UPI) -- Non-Hispanic blacks have the highest rate of obesity, followed by Hispanics and non-Hispanic whites, federal health officials said.

Federal researchers analyzed the 2006-08 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System data to identify racial and ethnic differences in obesity prevalence in U.S. adults, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's Weekly Report said Thursday.

Among non-Hispanic blacks, 40 states had an obesity prevalence of 30 percent or more, including five states with a prevalence of 40 percent or more, the report said.

Among Hispanics, 11 states had an obesity prevalence of 30 percent or more, but among non-Hispanic whites, one state had a prevalence of 30 percent or more.

Greater prevalences of obesity for non-Hispanic blacks and whites were found in the Midwest and South. Among Hispanics lower prevalence was observed in the Northeast compared with other regions.

Effective policy and environmental intervention strategies that promote healthy eating and active living are needed for all populations, especially those disproportionally impacted by obesity, the report said.