Skip to Content

CDC Offers Resources for Combating Obesity

 

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has announced several resources available to the public to help inform people about obesity and combat it at the same time.

First, the CDC has released information on what constitutes being overweight versus being obese. Specifically, they note that an adult with a body mass index (BMI) of between 25 and 29.9 is considered overweight, while an adult who has a BMI of 30 or higher is considered obese. A normal BMI ranges from 18.5 to 24.9. Another resource allows you to calculate your own BMI to see where you stand.

Next, the CDC has published information on the causes and consequences of obesity. They discuss various causes of obesity including environment, genetics and disease—all of which can have an impact on a person’s weight. Consequences of obesity, as we know, include diseases such as coronary heart disease, hypertension and cancer as well as problems like respiratory issues and stroke. Additionally, the CDC touches on the economic consequences of obesity including medical and premature death costs.

Finally, you can now take action to combat obesity via the CDC website. These resources are available for three action areas: self, family and community. The resources include information, tips and strategies to help combat obesity in your life and in your community. For example, knowing your own BMI and working to keep it in a healthy range can help combat personal obesity. Encouraging your children to stay active and eat healthy foods can start a life-long dedication to healthy lifestyles, and learning what resources are available in your community can help you understand what you can do to help others.

The CDC has also released maps that show self-reported state-specific data on obesity in the United States. The data was collected via their Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS), an on-going health survey system that participants complete over the phone.