Many Americans Want to Lose Weight, but Few Take Action

In a recent survey, it was found that more than half of Americans want to lose weight. But, only a small number are actually doing something about it. This gap between wanting and doing has stayed the same for almost 30 years. The survey also showed that 41% of people think they are overweight. Half of the people think their weight is just right. The rest think they are underweight. Over the years, the average weight of Americans has gone up. In 1990, the average weight was 161 pounds. Now, it is 181 pounds. Women's average weight has gone from 149 pounds to 163 pounds. Men's average weight has gone from 177 pounds to 198 pounds. Interestingly, as people have gained weight, their idea of the perfect weight has also gone up.Women are more likely than men to think they are overweight. 43% of women think they are overweight, compared to 37% of men. Also, more women want to lose weight than men. 58% of women want to lose weight, compared to 46% of men. This difference has been the same since the 1950s. The survey also showed differences between age groups. 30% of young adults (18-34) think they are overweight. 44% of middle-aged adults (35-54) think they are overweight. 45% of older adults (55+) think they are overweight. Even with new weight-loss drugs, people's views on their bodies have not changed much. The survey was done by phone. It included 1, 321 adults from all 50 states and Washington D. C. The survey was conducted by the West Health-Gallup Center on Healthcare in America.