Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Obesity rates refer to the percentage of people within a population who have a body mass index (BMI) above the healthy range. It is an indicator used to measure the prevalence of obesity-related health issues in a specific area or demographic.
Related terms
Body Mass Index (BMI): A numerical value calculated using height and weight measurements that categorizes individuals into underweight, normal weight, overweight, or obese.
Sedentary Lifestyle: A way of living with little physical activity or exercise.
Health Disparities: Differences in health outcomes between different populations due to various factors such as socioeconomic status or access to healthcare.