Physical Activity, Nutrition, and Obesity Prevention

Obesity Prevention

During the two decades prior to 2007, obesity prevalence doubled among Delaware adults. Fortunately, the trend has levelled off for the past decade. The causes of obesity are complex, involving individual risk factors, genetics, cultural and economic factors, and environmental and food industry influences. The obesity epidemic in the U.S. has high economic and health costs, contributing to a number of the leading causes of premature death, illness and disability. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have identified this epidemic as a high priority winnable battle.

Health Consequences of Obesity:

Obesity increases the risk of many chronic diseases, including:

Image: It�s not a diet, it�s a lifestyle!

Coronary heart disease, stroke, and high blood pressure
Type 2 diabetes
Cancers, such as endometrial, breast, and colon cancer
High total cholesterol and high levels of triglycerides
Liver and gallbladder disease
Sleep apnea and respiratory problems
Degeneration of cartilage and underlying bone within a joint (osteoarthritis)
Reproductive health complications such as infertility
Mental health conditions

More resources:

Suggestions for healthy eating and weight loss
Information from CDC about nutrition and weight
Let’s Move Child Care
The most recent Delaware data on nutrition, obesity, and chronic diseases from the Behavioral Risk Factor Survey

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Physical Activity, Nutrition, and Obesity Prevention

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Obesity Prevention

Health Consequences of Obesity:

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Delaware's Government