Scope of the problem

·         In Minnesota, 36% of adults are overweight and 22% are obese[i].

·         The proportion of adults in Minnesota who are obese (BMI>30) grew from 10% in 1990 to 20% in 2001.

·         Among adolescents ages 12-19, national data indicate that 11.3% of boys and 9.7% of girls are overweight[ii].

·         75% of overweight adolescents will become overweight or obese adults[iii].

What is the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) doing around obesity prevention?

The Minnesota Department of Health is providing technical assistance to local public health agencies. The Minnesota Department of Health has responded to increased concerns around obesity by providing a website with useful resources and information. Furthermore, MDH is building partnerships and relationships with key stakeholders, including health plan providers, local agencies, community leaders and educators.