Battling the Growing Epidemic: Childhood and Adult Obesity in Louisiana

Adult Obesity in Louisiana

‍According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), an adult with a BMI of 30 or higher is considered obese. Shockingly, 47.9% of Louisianans fall into this category, emphasizing the gravity of the problem. Among them, 12.7% have a BMI higher than 40, indicating severe obesity. These numbers paint a stark picture of the state's adult population grappling with excess weight.

‍Childhood Obesity in Louisiana

‍The situation becomes even more concerning when we shift our focus to the younger generation. Louisiana holds one of the highest rates of childhood obesity in the United States. According to the 2016–17 National Survey of Children's Health, a staggering 19.1% of children aged 10 to 17 in Louisiana were obese, surpassing the national average of 15.8%. This places Louisiana at the 45th spot in the ranking of states battling childhood obesity.Furthermore, the prevalence of overweight and obese children in Louisiana has been steadily rising since 2003. This is a deeply concerning trend that demands immediate attention and action.

‍Understanding Childhood Obesity

‍Childhood obesity is typically defined as a BMI at or above the 95th percentile for children. This definition underscores the importance of identifying and addressing this issue early in life to prevent severe health consequences down the road.

‍The Call to Action

‍The statistics surrounding childhood and adult obesity in Louisiana are alarming, and they emphasize the urgent need for action. It's essential to remember that obesity is not just about appearance; it has far-reaching health implications, including an increased risk of heart disease, diabetes, and other chronic conditions.

To combat this growing epidemic, we urge you to take action today. Schedule your appointment with a healthcare provider who can offer guidance, support, and tailored solutions to help you or your loved ones lead a healthier life. Your journey towards better health begins with a simple step – finding your nearest location at www.shchc.org/locations. Together, we can work towards a healthier Louisiana and a brighter future for our children and ourselves.