Overweight refers to weighing more than what is considered normal or healthy for a given height. People with overweight are at a higher risk of negative health outcomes such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and mortality.[1][2][2] As of 2017–2018, approximately 31.1% of adults in the United States have overweight.[3] Worldwide, 39% of adults are estimated to have overweight as of 2016.[4]
What is overweight?
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•Last Updated: May 16, 2025
Overweight is defined as weighing more than what is considered normal or healthy for a specific height, which increases the risk of health issues like cardiovascular disease and diabetes. As of 2017–2018, approximately 31.1% of adults in the U.S. and an estimated 39% of adults worldwide were classified as overweight.