W.Va. Ties for Second Most Obese State in the Nation

Almost 36 percent of adults in West Virginia are obese, according to a new report from the Trust for America’s Health and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. West Virginia’s obesity rates are surpassed only by Louisiana while Colorado has the lowest percent nationwide.

Obesity rates in American adults decreased in four states – Minnesota, Montana, New York and Ohio – and increased in Kansas and Kentucky. The decreases mark the first time in the past decade that any states have lowered their obesity rates.

However, obesity remains a major public health concern for millions of Americans. Obesity is associated with an increased risk for diabetes, heart disease, hypertension and high cholesterol. These diseases cost the country between 147 and 210 billion dollars each year.

Appalachia Health News is a project of West Virginia Public Broadcasting, with support from the Benedum Foundation.