The obesity epidemic in the U.S. shows no signs of abating. According to Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, 15% of U.S. adults were obese in 1990.

Trust for America's Health (a D.C.-based health policy organisation) and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation released "The State of Obesity 2018: Better Policies for a Healthier America" in 2018.

Some people think obese people lack willpower and discipline, but it's a chronic disease, says Angela Golden, vice president of the Arizona Nurse Practitioner Council.

Obesity can't be diagnosed by bloodwork. Graham defines obesity as a BMI of 30 or higher.

Symptoms Obesity is associated with a number of health issues, including: – Sleeping difficulties. – Varicose veins. – Joint pain. – Shortness of breath.

A Significant Increase in Obesity There are three broad types of risk factors for obesity: 1. Behavioral. 2. Genetic. 3. Environmental.

Strategies to Fight Obesity Manage your stress. Develop a healthy sleep regimen. Exercise regularly. Consider weight loss medication. Beware of binge-watching. Set small, achievable goals. Don't skip meals.

Dietitian Lauren Merryman of College Station, Texas, says there are many obesity-fighting strategies. Merryman leads Cecilia Health's New York City team.