In 2024, 71.5% of adults reported experiencing fatigue at least some days in the past three months, a Sept. 3 CDC report found.
The CDC used 2024 National Health Interview Survey data to estimate fatigue symptoms among about 27,000 adults 18 and older. Fatigue statistics are based on the reported frequency of fatigue in the past three months. Fatigue is defined as physical or mental tiredness or exhaustion that does not improve with additional sleep or rest.
Fatigue is “one of the most frequently reported health concerns in primary care visits in the U.S.,” sociologist Natalie Young, PhD, lead author of the report, said.
Here is what to know.
1. Among adults who reported fatigue in the past three months, 54.9% of adults reported it on some days, 10.7% most days, and 5.9% every day.
2. Frequent fatigue was most common among women at 20% — compared to 13% of men — and younger adults.
3. American Indian and Alaska Native non-Hispanic adults had the highest rates of frequent fatigue among races at 25.5%, and Asian adults had the least at 9.1%.
4. Frequent fatigue decreased with higher family income. However, it was higher for those in the South and Midwest and increased with decreasing urbanization level.
5. Adults with frequent fatigue were more likely to report co-occurring functioning difficulties, and about half reported difficulties in at least three functioning domains. This included 29% who reported limited participation in social activities and 36% who reported work limitations.
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