Missouri is 11th most obese state in the nation; data and recommendations | HealthyAmericans.org

Headlines are quick hits from media outlets from Missouri and around the world. Follow the headline link for the full story. The source of this headline says:

Missouri was named the 11th most obese state in the country, according to the eighth annual F as in Fat: How Obesity Threatens America's Future 2011, a report from the Trust for America's Health (TFAH) and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation (RWJF). Missouri's adult obesity rate is 30.3 percent.

Adult obesity rates increased in 16 states in the past year and did not decline in any state. Twelve states including Missouri now have obesity rates over 30 percent. Four years ago, only one state was above 30 percent. Obesity rates exceed 25 percent in more than two-thirds of states (38 states) . . .

* Every state has some physical education requirements for students. However, these requirements are often limited or not enforced, and many programs are inadequate.

* Twenty-one states including Missouri now have legislation that requires body mass index (BMI) screening or weight-related assessments other than BMI for children and adolescents. Seven years ago, only four states required BMI screening or other weight-related assessments.

* Twenty-six states not including Missouri have now established farm-to-school programs. Five years ago, only New York had a law establishing a farm-to-school program.

* Sixteen states not including Missouri now have Complete Streets laws. "Complete streets" are roads designed to allow all users – bicyclists, pedestrians, drivers, and public transit users – to access them safely. Seven years ago only five states had these laws.

Link: 

Missouri is 11th most obese state in the nation; data and recommendations | HealthyAmericans.org