The Facts about Obesity in Utah

According to the recent report "Tipping the Scales Toward a Healthier Population: A Report of Overweight and Obesity in Utah ," 58.4 percent of adults in Utah are overweight and 21.0 percent of those are obese (2004 BRFSS). These rates reflect an increase of 112 percent in Utah over 14 years.

The problem is not just confined to adults. Our kids are suffering, too. The most recent data (2003) show that 11.3 percent of Utah's public high school students are at risk of becoming overweight and 7.0 percent already overweight. The number of overweight Utah teenagers could fill 410 classrooms!

Why Are We Overweight?
It's simple. The average Utahn is eating more high-fat foods; is drinking soda instead of milk or water; is consuming few fruits and vegetables; is eating more meals/snacks outside of the home and is moving less.

Time for Change
Changing unhealthy habits to healthy ones is simple, if done for the long term and in small steps. As you explore the Check Your Health website, you will find simple, common sense information to help you and your family create healthy habits and, ultimately, improve your health. Start by learning to eat healthy!

Utah's Plan
On May 3, 2006 Governor Jon Huntsman, Jr. and Mrs. Huntsman announced the launch of Tipping the Scales Toward a Healthier Population: The Utah Blueprint to Promote Healthy Weight for Children, Youth, and Adults. The Blueprint offers comprehensive, statewide obesity prevention strategies.