MDH: Minnesota's Obesity Rates Plummet In 2015; Remains Lowest In Midwest
MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) -- The Minnesota Department of Health says the state has seen a significant drop in its obesity rate and continues to have the lowest rate in the Midwest.
The MDH says the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention found that obesity rate in the state dropped from 27.6 percent in 2014 to 26.1 percent in 2017.
Neighboring states' rates range between 30.7 and 32.1 percent.
"Minnesota's obesity rate is markedly lower than our surrounding states and we were still able to achieve a greater decrease in 2015 than our neighboring states," said Minnesota Commissioner of Health Dr. Ed Ehlinger. "Achieving healthy weight for all Minnesotans is one of the key objectives for our Statewide Health Improvement Program (SHIP) and its community and private sector partners. By working together we've been able to increase opportunities for healthy eating and physical activity for all Minnesotans in every corner of the state."
The MDH says obesity rates have a significant impact on health care costs for related chronic diseases, which include diabetes.