Obesity significantly affects the public in the United States, affecting millions of individuals and communities. Teenage obesity increased from 10.5% in 1988 to 20.9% in 2018. The issues of poverty, limited access to healthcare, food insecurity, and cultural factors are deeply intertwined, creating a challenging environment for residents to maintain healthy lifestyles.
We have researched various online forums and platforms to create a list of the 12 most obese counties in America.
McDowell County, West Virginia
McDowell County is the epicenter of the obesity crisis in America. It used to be a flourishing coal mining community, but the industry’s decline has left the area with economic hardships and exacerbated health issues, with obesity being one of the most prominent.
A poverty rate of around 33% restricts access to nutritious food and recreational activities. Moreover, McDowell County is classified as a food desert with minimal access to fresh fruits and vegetables. Many residents rely on calorie-dense, nutrient-poor fast food.
Noxubee County, Mississippi
Noxubee County, situated in eastern Mississippi, is another rural county grappling with high obesity rates. It has a high poverty rate, with many residents struggling to afford necessities, including healthy food. The county has limited access to healthcare facilities, particularly those offering preventive care and weight management programs. Without access to recreational facilities or parks, residents may not engage in regular exercise, contributing to higher obesity rates.
Owsley County, Kentucky
The high obesity rate in Owsley County is a reflection of the broader socio-economic difficulties that the region faces. With nearly half the population living below the poverty line, economic hardship limits residents’ ability to afford healthy food and lifestyle. The rural nature of Owsley County means that healthcare facilities are few and far between. This lack of educational attainment also contributes to a limited understanding of nutrition and healthy eating habits, further exacerbating the obesity problem.
East Carroll Parish, Louisiana
East Carroll Parish, located in northeastern Louisiana, is a small, rural parish with a predominantly African American population. Economic challenges have led to food insecurity, with many residents relying on cheap, calorie-dense foods. Traditional Southern cuisine, famous in East Carroll Parish, often includes high-calorie, high-fat foods. These dietary habits contribute to high obesity rates, and the parish also lacks access to fresh and nutritious foods.
Scott County, Tennessee
Scott County, located in northern Tennessee, has a high rate of unemployment and poverty, which contribute to the high prevalence of obesity. The rugged, mountainous terrain also poses challenges for residents trying to maintain an active lifestyle.
Scott County’s rural setting means residents live far from healthcare facilities, grocery stores, and recreational centers. A lack of preventive health services such as weight management programs and nutrition counseling also contributes to the obesity problem.
McCreary County, Kentucky
McCreary County, in southern Kentucky, is another rural county with high obesity rates. Economic challenges, combined with a lack of access to healthy food and recreational facilities, have contributed to the county’s high obesity rate. McCreary County has one of the highest poverty rates in Kentucky, with more than 33% of residents living below the poverty line. Poverty limits access to healthy food, healthcare, and opportunities for physical activity.
Issaquena County, Mississippi
Located in the Mississippi Delta region, Issaquena County is the least populous county in Mississippi. The county’s small population and rural setting have contributed to significant challenges in addressing obesity. Issaquena County is highly rural, with limited infrastructure and services. The area is marked by high poverty rates, limited healthcare access, and a lack of healthy food options, all of which contribute to the high obesity rate.
Ziebach County, South Dakota
Ziebach County, located in north-central South Dakota, lies within the Cheyenne River Indian Reservation and is home to a significant Native American population. With a poverty rate exceeding 51%, economic hardships significantly impact their ability to afford nutritious food.
Traditional Native American diets were historically rich in fruits, vegetables, and lean meats. However, due to historical trauma, displacement, and lifestyle changes, many native communities have shifted toward diets high in processed foods, sugars, and fats. This shift, combined with limited opportunities for physical activity, has contributed to high obesity rates.
Holmes County, Mississippi
The high obesity rate in Holmes County reflects the broader socio-economic and educational challenges that affect public health outcomes in the region. The poverty rate of over 32% is significantly higher than the national average. Economic hardship limits residents’ ability to afford healthy foods.
The county also struggles with low educational attainment and limited access to health education. With less knowledge of nutrition and the importance of physical activity, residents are less likely to engage in healthy behaviors.
Union County, Florida
Union County, located in northern Florida, is a small rural county with a high obesity rate. The rural location means many residents live far from healthcare facilities and grocery stores that offer healthy food options. The county has a relatively high poverty rate, with many residents facing financial difficulties that impact their ability to afford nutritious food and engage in exercise. Moreover, educational attainment is low, and there are few local resources dedicated to health education.
Clay County, Kentucky
Clay County is located in the eastern part of Kentucky, within the Appalachian region. Its high obesity rate reflects broader challenges, including economic distress and limited access to healthcare. Clay County’s poverty rate is around 31%, significantly above the national average. This limits access to healthy food, healthcare, and recreational opportunities, all of which are essential for maintaining a healthy weight.
Humphreys County, Mississippi
Humphreys County, located in the Mississippi Delta, is another area with high obesity rates. The county’s challenges are similar to those seen in other parts of the Mississippi Delta, including food insecurity, and limited access to healthcare. The county has a relatively higher poverty rate, which forces many residents to rely on cheaper, less nutritious food options. There is also a severe scarcity of healthcare facilities, particularly those offering preventive care and nutrition counseling.
