Obesity contributes to a host of chronic diseases and causes a greater likelihood of premature death. In Washington and the nation, obesity is epidemic. The epidemic is driven by changes in the physical, social and economic environment that make it easy to take in more calories than needed while making it harder to get enough physical activity to consume those extra calories. Many barriers make it difficult for people to change their eating and physical activity habits. Prevention is the greatest hope to slow and reverse obesity. To be successful in reducing obesity, government, communities, and individuals need to work together to create environments that support healthy diets and opportunities for physical activity. For in-depth data, please go to  Obesity in Washington State. (Word, 107 KB)