Focusing on South Carolina
January 2009
Focus: Obesity
SC Statistics:
- The rates of overweight and obesity in South Carolina are among the highest in the nation.
- 1 in 4 adults in South Carolina are obese and over 3 of 5 adults are either overweight or obese.
- Annual medical expenditures related to obesity in South Carolina have topped $1 billion dollars.
Why is this a public health priority?
The health and financial costs of obesity affect almost every person in South Carolina, directly or indirectly. The health consequences of obesity include heart disease, type 2 diabetes, stroke and cancer. Financially, health insurance premiums are on the rise for everyone and the health ranking of SC discourages businesses from coming to our state.
What is the role of SCPHI in addressing this priority?
The South Carolina Public Health Institute is joining with key partners, including Eat Smart Move More…SC (ESMM), to support a comprehensive strategic approach promoting social and environmental change for obesity prevention. SCPHI’s Deputy Director, Dr. Lee Pearson, serves as a Member-at-Large on the Leadership Council of ESMM and he is joined by the Institute’s Coordinator, Megan Weis, on the Healthy Communities Advisory Committee.
Who are SCPHI’s key partners in this effort?
Eat Smart, Move More SC
Partnership to Fight Chronic Disease
