As We See It

Nevada’s childhood obesity stats predict a fatter future

Image
One in four Nevadans in obese, according to the CDC.

Two things are now official: 1. Obesity is a disease—a medical condition requiring treatment (according to an upcoming classification from the American Medical Association); and 2. One out of four Nevadans is obese (according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention).

That sounds bad, but Nevada is actually the 7th thinnest state in the union (a ranking we share with two other states), according to the CDC. That means most of the country eats more, exercises less and is more likely to develop Type 2 diabetes and heart disease.

But before you celebrate with a big ol’ piece of cake, keep in mind our childhood obesity rate, 36.8 percent, is higher than the national average. So it’s only a matter of time before our adult ranking goes up, since people tend to lock in healthy and unhealthy eating habits at a young age. That’s why school districts like Washoe County offer six fruits and vegetables at lunch hour.

We’ll see whether obesity’s new classification removes some of the stigma associated with being fat (i.e., it’s not your fault; it’s a disease) and whether the FDA will approve more weight-loss drugs in the coming years. In the meantime, let’s all eat a bowl of broccoli.

Tags: News, Opinion
Share

Previous Discussion:

Top of Story