Understanding Sex Differences in Obesity

Fact Sheets

Published 6/2/26

Obesity is a chronic disease that results from both internal and external factors, ultimately impacting an individual’s metabolic (relating to metabolism), physiologic (relating to the body’s normal functioning), structural (relating to the physical body), psychological (relating to the mind or emotional state), and social health.

In the United States, two in five women are living with obesity. While the prevalence of obesity among U.S. men and women is almost equivalent, the prevalence of types of obesity and its impact on patients differs between men and women. The “Understanding Sex Differences in Obesity” fact sheet explores these differences.

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Fact Sheet References

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  20. Christensen, P., Meinert Larsen, T., Westerterp-Plantenga, M., Macdonald, I., Martinez, J. A., Handjiev, S., Poppitt, S., Hansen, S., Ritz, C., Astrup, A., Pastor-Sanz, L., Sandø-Pedersen, F., Pietiläinen, K. H., Sundvall, J., Drummen, M., Taylor, M. A., Navas-Carretero, S., Handjieva-Darlenska, T., Brodie, S., … Raben, A. (2018). Men and women respond differently to rapid weight loss: Metabolic outcomes of a multi-centre intervention study after a low-energy diet in 2500 overweight, individuals with pre-diabetes (PREVIEW). Diabetes, Obesity and Metabolism, 20(12), 2840–2851. https://doi.org/10.1111/DOM.13466
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This document is intended to serve as an educational and informative resource and is not intended or implied to serve as a substitute for medical or professional advice. The Society for Women’s Health Research does not make medical, diagnosis, or treatment recommendations, nor does it endorse or promote specific screening or diagnostic tests. Patients and consumers should confirm information and consult a professional health care provider to determine individual needs. The Society will not be liable for any direct, indirect, or other damages arising therefrom.

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