Obesity

 

Prevalence

In 2004, 20% of New Mexican adults are considered obese; 37% are overweight (CDC BRFSS 2004). In 2002, 54% of New Mexicans were overweight, representing 66% Native Americans, 65% Black, 58% Hispanic and 51% White. Many believe that the problem is even worse than surveys show. Nationwide, the prevalence of overweight children and adolescents is double and triple the rate from 20 years ago (DOH). 24% of high school students are overweight or at risk for overweight (NM Youth Risk & Resiliency Survey, YRRS, 2001).

 

Consequences

Obesity is associated with hypertension, heart diseases, some cancers (endometrial, breast and colon), diabetes and arthritis. About 300,000 deaths each year in the United States may be attributable to obesity. Besides the health consequences, obesity and overweight related diseases presents huge burden to economy as well. In 1998, these diseases cost $51.5 billion nation wide, which was 9.1% of total U.S. medical expenditures. In New Mexico, they cost approximately $324 million annually in total (CDC).

 

Prevention

Obesity and its costs are largely preventable through increased regular physical activity and good nutrition. Controlling and preventing obesity represents a tremendous opportunity to save lives and money.

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Health Sciences Center & Obesity

SOM holds an Obesity Symposium every year, Continuing Medical Education Obesity Prevention Network, PRC

 

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