Michigan Ranked #5 Fattest State

Michigan Ranked #5 Fattest State

UPDATE: LANSING - A new report from Trust for America Health stated Michigan as the 5th fattest state in the nation. The ranking has caused some state officials to take action.

With obesity already making Michigan the 5th highest state to find it, studies show it could be getting worse. With an estimated 60 percent of the state reaching obesity by 2030.

Angela M. Minicuci, Public Information Officer, MI Department of Community Health said, "We are 5th, which is a very concerning issue. So we are working to address that."

They plan to change this with the Michigan Health and Wellness 4X4 plan focusing on four behaviors including eating right, getting more active, yearly doctor visits, and avoiding all tobacco use.

"So if you pay attention to those, even if you are not obese it will allow you to be a healthier Michigander and make sure your health is at a good place," said Minicuci.

This plan uses four ways to measure those behaviors including body mass index, cholesterol, blood pressure, and glucose.

Minicucu said. "The nice thing about paying attention to the 4X4 is that it allows people who either are currently struggling with their weight or people that aren't but are potentially living an unhealthy lifestyle that maybe one day will lead them to be struggling with their weight."

The Department of Community Health believes this plan will not only reduce obesity in the state but prevent it before it gets any worse.

ORIGINAL STORY: LANSING - MI ranks as 5th fattest state according to a recent report. Find out how state health officials are planning to turn that around tonight on Meridian Magazine.

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