The U.S. Obesity rates are at historic highs, according to a report from Trust for America’s Health. The state of Louisiana is at number 4 in the nation out of nine states that have reached an adult obesity rate above 35 percent. Louisiana’s adult obesity rate is at 37%. President of TFAH John Auerbach says to reverse the trend more than just one or two things need to change.
“A global effort to change the conditions in people’s lives and in the communities if we really expect to tackle this serious health program that every single year gets worse and worse,” said Auerbach.
Trust for America’s Health has 31 recommendations on tackling the obesity rates. One suggestion is more money for states to implement evidence-based obesity prevention strategies.
Auerbach also recommends taxes on sugary drinks and expanded SNAP and WIC Nutrition support programs.
“Women Infants and Children program is an effective program, a new study this year reconfirmed that, so enrolling more families on WIC and keeping kids on longer certainly makes sense,” said Auerbach.
Obese Americans are at risk for type two diabetes, high blood pressure, stroke and many types of cancers, according to Auerbach. He says obesity is also estimated to increase national healthcare spending by 149-million dollars a year.
“This isn’t just about gaining some extra weight," he said. "This has real serious consequences for us as a nation.”