As the new year approaches and resolution season begins, a new Gallup survey shows that weight remains a major concern for many Americans.
According to findings released Dec. 29, 52% of U.S. adults say they would like to lose weight, though far fewer are actively taking steps to do so.
The West Health-Gallup Health and Healthcare Survey found that 41% of Americans describe themselves as at least somewhat overweight. About half say their weight is “about right,” while 8% consider themselves underweight.
Women continue to report more concern about weight than men. The survey found that 43% of women say they are overweight, compared with 37% of men. Women are also more likely to say they want to lose weight, with 58% expressing that goal versus 46% of men.
Despite the widespread desire to slim down, only 26% of Americans say they are seriously trying to lose weight. That includes 30% of women and 22% of men. Researchers found a consistent gap between wanting to lose weight and actually taking action, a trend that has remained steady for decades.
Age also plays a role. Only 30% of adults ages 18 to 34 say they are overweight, compared with about 44% of those ages 35 to 54 and 45% of adults 55 and older.
The survey also highlights long-term changes in Americans’ weight and expectations. Average self-reported body weight has increased by about 20 pounds since 1990. At the same time, what Americans consider their “ideal” weight has also risen, with today’s targets averaging about 15 pounds higher than they were three decades ago.
Gallup researchers note that while new weight-loss medications have coincided with a recent decline in obesity rates, a steady four in 10 Americans still view themselves as overweight, and most who want to lose weight are not actively trying.
The findings are based on interviews conducted Nov. 3–25 and were produced in partnership with the West Health-Gallup Center on Healthcare in America.