Minnesota’s Obesity Rate Is Now Above 30%

St. Paul, MN (KROC-AM News) - Minnesota's adult obesity rate is now above 30-percent.

A new report based on federal health data indicates the percentage of adults in the state considered obese rose from 28.4-percent in 2017 to 30.1-percent last year. It marked the first time Minnesota has seen the rate climb above 30-percent and pushed the state's rate closer to the national average of 30.9-percent.

“Obesity is more than just a health concern for individual Minnesotans – it’s a major challenge for the entire state,” said Minnesota Commissioner of Health Jan Malcolm. “Addressing this challenge requires an individual and community-level response, including smart changes to our food and physical environments.”

The report from the Trust for America's Health also shows Minnesota's adult obesity increased 15-percent between 2013 and 2017. The Minnesota Department of Health estimates the states healthcare costs due to obesity in 2017 at about $3.2 billion.

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