Many Americans Want to Lose Weight, but Few Take Action

Survey Highlights

• More than half of Americans want to lose weight, but only a small number are taking action.
• 41% of people think they are overweight, while half believe their weight is just right.
• The remaining individuals think they are underweight.

Weight Trends Over Time

• Average weight in 1990: 161 pounds
• Average weight now: 181 pounds

By Gender

• Women:
• 1990: 149 pounds
• Now: 163 pounds
• Men:
• 1990: 177 pounds
• Now: 198 pounds

Perception of Weight

• Women are more likely to think they are overweight (43%) compared to men (37%).
• 58% of women want to lose weight, compared to 46% of men.
• This gender difference has remained consistent since the 1950s.

Age Group Differences

• Young adults (18-34): 30% think they are overweight.
• Middle-aged adults (35-54): 44% think they are overweight.
• Older adults (55+): 45% think they are overweight.

Survey Details

• Method: Conducted by phone.
• Sample Size: 1,321 adults from all 50 states and Washington D.C.
• Conducted by: West Health-Gallup Center on Healthcare in America.