Obesity is a growing problem in the United States, and Missouri is no exception. In fact, Missouri is one of the most obese states in the country, with an adult obesity rate of 35.4%. This is significantly higher than the national average of 32.6%.
The city with the highest obesity rate in Missouri is Kansas City. The adult obesity rate in Kansas City is 40.5%. This is a significant problem, as obesity can lead to a number of health problems, including heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, and certain types of cancer.
Here is the table of obesity rates in Missouri according to cities:
| City | Obesity Rate |
| Kansas City | 40.5 |
| St. Louis | 38.2 |
| Springfield | 35.6 |
| Independence | 34.8 |
| Columbia | 33.9 |
| Lee’s Summit | 33.7 |
| O’Fallon | 33.5 |
| St. Joseph | 33.3 |
| Blue Springs | 32.9 |
| Joplin | 32.7 |
Factors Contributing to Obesity in Missouri
There are a number of factors that contribute to the high obesity rate in Missouri. One factor is the state’s high poverty rate. Missouri has one of the highest poverty rates in the country, and poverty is a major risk factor for obesity.
Another factor contributing to obesity in Missouri is the state’s lack of access to healthy food. Many areas of Missouri are food deserts, which are areas where there is a lack of access to affordable, nutritious food. This can make it difficult for people to make healthy food choices.
Finally, Missouri’s sedentary lifestyle is also a contributing factor to the state’s high obesity rate. Many people in Missouri do not get enough exercise, which can lead to weight gain.
The Impact of Obesity on Missouri
Obesity has a significant impact on Missouri. The state spends billions of dollars each year on obesity-related healthcare costs. Obesity also leads to a decrease in productivity and an increase in absenteeism.
In addition, obesity can lead to a number of health problems, including heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, and certain types of cancer. These health problems can lead to a decrease in quality of life and an increase in premature death.
What Can Be Done to Reduce Obesity in Missouri
There are a number of things that can be done to reduce obesity in Missouri. One important step is to make healthy food more affordable and accessible. This can be done by increasing access to grocery stores and farmers markets in food deserts.
Another important step is to increase physical activity levels. This can be done by creating more opportunities for people to exercise, such as building more parks and recreation centers.
Finally, it is important to educate people about the risks of obesity and how to make healthy lifestyle choices. This can be done through school programs, public health campaigns, and community-based initiatives.
FAQ about obesity in Missouri:
Q: What is the obesity rate in Missouri?
A: The obesity rate in Missouri is 35.4%, which is significantly higher than the national average of 32.6%. This means that over one-third of adults in Missouri are obese.
Q: Which city in Missouri has the highest obesity rate?
A: Kansas City has the highest obesity rate in Missouri, with an obesity rate of 40.5%. This is followed by St. Louis with an obesity rate of 38.2%.
Q: What are the factors that contribute to obesity in Missouri?
A: There are a number of factors that contribute to obesity in Missouri, including:
- High poverty rate: Missouri has one of the highest poverty rates in the country, which is a major risk factor for obesity.
- Lack of access to healthy food: Many areas of Missouri are food deserts, which are areas with limited access to affordable, healthy food.
- Sedentary lifestyle: Many people in Missouri do not get enough exercise, which can lead to weight gain.
Q: What are the health consequences of obesity?
A: Obesity can lead to a number of health problems, including:
- Heart disease
- Stroke
- Type 2 diabetes
- Certain types of cancer
- High blood pressure
- Osteoarthritis
- Sleep apnea
- Gallstones
Q: What can be done to reduce obesity in Missouri?
A: There are a number of things that can be done to reduce obesity in Missouri, including:
- Make healthy food more affordable and accessible: This can be done by increasing access to grocery stores and farmers markets in food deserts.
- Increase physical activity levels: This can be done by creating more opportunities for people to exercise, such as building more parks and recreation centers.
- Educate people about the risks of obesity and how to make healthy lifestyle choices: This can be done through school programs, public health campaigns, and community-based initiatives.
Q: What are some resources that can help people with obesity?
A: There are a number of resources available to help people with obesity, including:
- Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services:https://health.mo.gov/: https://health.mo.gov/
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention:https://www.cdc.gov/: https://www.cdc.gov/
- National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases:https://www.niddk.nih.gov/: https://www.niddk.nih.gov/
- Obesity Action Coalition:https://obesityaction.org/: https://obesityaction.org/
Conclusion
Obesity is a serious problem in Missouri, but it is not a problem that cannot be solved. By taking steps to make healthy food more affordable and accessible, increase physical activity levels, and educate people about the risks of obesity, we can help to reduce obesity in Missouri and improve the health of all Missourians.
