Rates of overweight and obesity amongst adults in Onondaga County has been high for quite some time – at a rate of 29.4%, with rates higher than NY state-wide. (27.9%) but lower than the rate in Central New York (34.7%).
Being overweight and obesity increases the risk of other chronic health conditions like diabetes, heart disease, and stroke.
Factors that contribute to weight gain are:
Nutrition Habits: The food we eat is the most significant contributor to obesity. Calorie dense processed foods often offer little nutritional value.
Physical Inactivity: A sedentary lifestyle is another contributor to obesity. Lower energy expenditure leads to increased weight gain.
To improve healthy people in Upstate New York, we need a food and build environment which promotes healthy eating and physical activity.