Research Shows that Obesity on the Rise in the South

Does it ever seem as though the nation’s overall level of health care is heading “South”? Well, it’s not all in your imagination, as studies indicate that the Southern region of our country is a hotbed of obesity. And unfortunately, it’s not just a few isolated areas; the majority of these states are boasting sky-high obesity rates.

A county-by-county obesity survey, the first of its kind, was conducted in 2007 by the Centers for Diseases Control and Prevention (CDC). These results were published in the agency’s journal, Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report. According to these findings, more than 80% of Appalachian counties, including those in Kentucky, West Virginia and Tennessee, now report high levels of diabetes and obesity. Additionally, counties in Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana, Georgia and South Carolina reported levels of 75% for these conditions.

Alabama and Mississippi at the Top
These particular counties, all of which were small and rural, had obesity rates of around 43-44%, and included: Alabama’s Greene and Dallas counties, and Mississippi’s Holmes, Humphreys and Jefferson counties. These are exceptionally high when you consider that the nation’s adult obesity rate measures about 26%. The CDC stated that it was difficult to identify the country with the highest level, as many counties shared similar levels.

Meanwhile, the CDC found that western states had the lowest levels for obesity, as well as that for type 1diabetes, which is related to obesity. Those counties reporting the lowest found in Western states, and included: Boulder County, Colorado, Santa Fe County, New Mexico, and Summit County, Utah. In these counties, a little less than 13% of these counties’ residents were considered obese; about 4% reported having diabetes.

The Reasons Behind the Weight Gain
Why do these Southern counties have higher levels of adult obesity? Healthcare experts believe that residents in these regions favor fatty, unhealthy foods, while avoiding exercise more than other areas.  And while genetics may the cause of rising waistlines, both income and education play large roles, as well. That’s because those living in these poor areas may not be able to afford healthier foods, or gym memberships.

But while these high levels of obesity may be cause for worry, they could also offer hope for the future – although local efforts must be taken. “In the end, it comes down to those that have to direct resources at the local level,” said Dr. Miriam Vos, assistant professor of pediatrics at Atlanta’s Emory School of Medicine. “It’s not something that can change as easily at the federal level.” And of course, the individuals at risk must do their best to maintain healthy weights.

Source: http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20091120/ap_on_he_me/us_med_obesity_counties