Healthy Weight

The prevalence of obesity continues to be a health concern for adults, children and adolescents in the United States. Here in Ohio, obesity-reduction and prevention efforts are especially important because nearly two-thirds of Ohio’s residents are overweight (38 percent) or obese (28 percent), making Ohio the fifth-heaviest state in the nation.

Obesity is measured by Body Mass Index (BMI) –  a number calculated from a person's weight and height. BMI provides a reliable indicator of body fatness for most people and is used to screen for weight categories that may lead to health problems.

State government can and should act as a leader in convening the necessary groups and supporting policy changes to reverse obesity trends.  In recognition of that role, on September 19, 2008, Governor Ted Strickland issued a directive to the Ohio Department of Health’s Office of Healthy Ohio to develop a comprehensive, multi-faceted obesity prevention plan for the State of Ohio.  The plan includes goals and recommendations to support and enhance specific actionable obesity prevention measures for the residents of this State, with particular attention to children and adolescents.

To complement the development of the state plan, the Office of Healthy Ohio granted more than $1.1 million to 14 local health departments to help reduce the risk of obesity in their respective communities. Awarded October 17, the 2008, Healthy Ohio Obesity Prevention grants  are designed to help communities protect and improve the health of their residents through environmental change, community expansion and capacity building efforts. Residents and organizations can support local coalitions and projects by contacting their local health department.

While these efforts take shape, past events, like the Office of Healthy Ohio Forum on Childhood Obesity Prevention  held in the fall of 2008, indicate there is significant activity already occurring in communities around the state. The Office of Healthy Ohio will continue to collaborate and work with stakeholders around the state to help solve the complex issue of obesity prevention. Moreover, the state is committed to developing policy changes to encourage and support healthier, more active communities, worksites and schools.

As work continues around the state, learn how you can attain and keep a healthy weight. The key is choosing a lifestyle that includes healthy eating, regular physical activity and balancing the number of calories you consume with the number of calories your body uses. By increasing physical activity and improving nutrition, Ohioans will take steps necessary to improve their health.

Last updated 3/23/09