Final answer:
While the provided information does not specify the exact percentage of children newly diagnosed with type 2 diabetes in the highest obesity areas, the rise in childhood obesity contributes to a significant number of cases.
Step-by-step explanation:
The prevalence of obesity in the United States has dramatically increased over recent decades, particularly in southern states. This rise in obesity correlates with a concerning rise in childhood obesity, subsequently leading to a younger demographic being diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. Given the data that the age at which type 2 diabetes is being diagnosed has fallen, and even children are now being diagnosed with the disease, it is imperative to consider the noted percentages in the context of the question provided. While the exact percentage of children being newly diagnosed with type 2 diabetes in areas with the highest rates of obesity is not specified in the provided information, we can infer that it is significant given the strong link between obesity and the development of type 2 diabetes.