Obesity rates are growing in every state but Oregon, according to a new report by Trust for America’s Health based on data from the CDC. (Read the Seattle Times article here.) While Oregonians can be proud of their accomplishment last year, they are not the trimmest state in the country, nor in the Northwest.
Interestingly, every Northwest state has lower rates of obesity than the national average. Montana residents are least likely to be obese; Alaskans are most likely. As Jessica pointed out recently, it’s worth paying attention to obesity trends, not only because of their health consequences, but because it can absorb a lot of money.
Here’s the skinny on obesity in the Northwest states…
Percent of state residents who are obese, 2004
|
|
Percent of residents who are obese, 2004
|
|
Alaska |
23.5 |
|
California |
21.5 |
|
Idaho |
20.9 |
|
Montana |
19.1 |
|
Oregon |
21.0 |
|
Washington |
21.7 |
|
United States |
24.5 |
