South Bend Tribune
It’s no secret that Indiana ranks poorly when it comes to the health of its residents.
According to a recent Tribune Viewpoint written by Claire Fiddian-Green, president and CEO of the Richard M. Fairbanks Foundation, obesity is taking a toll on Hoosier children and adults. The foundation’s mission is to advance the health and well-being of people across the state.
Obesity has risen steadily in Indiana over the last two decades. Almost 34 percent of Hoosier adults were obese in 2017 — up from 20 percent in 1995, and South Bend’s rate is even higher, with 39 percent of adults considered obese. Indiana’s obesity rate is now the 12th highest in the country.
“There’s been a progressive creep up in the proportion of population that’s obese,” said Dr. Mark Fox, St. Joseph County deputy health officer.
“Obesity tracks from adolescence into adulthood,” Fox said. “The roots of behavioral issues track to childhood even before three years of age.”
Data from the Indiana Youth Institute as recent as 2017 say, nationally, 12.2 percent of youths ages 12-17 do not participate in vigorous physical activity, which is defined as being active for 60 minutes or longer, during the course of a week.
That same study showed in St. Joseph County, one in four adults was considered physically inactive.
But steps are being taken to fight obesity. The county health department has helped spearhead the Reducing Obesity Coalition. ROC promotes healthy lifestyles through collaboration, outreach and education with local hospitals, the YMCA, the Kroc Center and other organizations.
ROC has developed healthy cooking programs, a ROC Ur Body event to raise awareness about childhood obesity and “Let’s Move,” a program launched by former first lady Michelle Obama.
Obesity is costly, not only in terms of Hoosier health but also in its economic impact of higher health care costs.
Engaging the public on the topic of obesity is no small task, and the goal of ending obesity in the county is daunting. But a public health crisis that threatens the future of children and adults requires a significant effort.
