Rising Obesity Rate Generates Government Action

The Obama Administration recently announced the creation of a task force on child obesity. And Missouri is looking for ways to guard the waistline of its citizens.

The rising rate of obesity is causing both the state and federal governments to take action.

The Obama Administration recently announced the creation of a task force on child obesity. And Missouri is looking for ways to guard the waistline of its citizens.

Missourians rank 13th in the nation when it comes to obesity.

"With two out of three adults being overweight or obese, that's a pretty big problem," Pat Simmons, from the Missouri Department of Health, said.

Seventy percent of Missouri men are overweight or obese, while 57 percent of Missouri women and 30 percent of high school students are.

An area exercise specialist said today's society contributes to the trend.

"So, we're sitting in front of computers or at a desk. Modern technology has made it, we don't have to move as much," Mason Stevens, from the Capital Region Medical Center, said.

The growing obesity epidemic has one Missouri lawmaker determined to make a difference.

"A rise in obesity that's very alarming, and I'm very concerned about it," Rep. Michael R. Brown (D) Kansas City said.

Brown has a bill that would create a commission on prevention and management of obesity. The group would list programs available to address the needs of overweight adults and children, as well as collect data about the extent of obesity in the state.

"I'm hoping that the response that I've had will continue. It's been a very good response across the board," Brown said.

The commission would make recommendations to combat obesity.

A council already exists at the state level to stop obesity. However, Brown's bill would mandate the group, ensuring its continued work.

: Kylie McGivern