Obesity rates across the globe have nearly doubled since 1980, but there have been slight declines in high blood pressure and high cholesterol, two major risk factors for heart disease and stroke, according to three new studies in The Lancet.

Obesity rates across the globe have nearly doubled since 1980, but there have been slight declines in high blood pressure and high cholesterol, two major risk factors for heart disease and stroke, according to three new studies in The Lancet.

Half of all American adults have hypertension or high cholesterol and many don't get adequate medical treatment, the Centers for Disease Control and Preventionreported on Tuesday.

Title: Half of Adults Have Hypertension or High Cholesterol: CDC Category: Health News Created: 2/1/2011 8:05:00 PM Last Editorial Review: 2/2/2011

ATLANTA, Feb. 2 (UPI) -- Most U.S. adults with uncontrolled blood pressure or high cholesterol have health insurance and access to low-cost effective treatment, health officials say.