According to the U.S. Surgeon General, obesity is the greatest threat to the public health of our nation, and the threat is increasing every day. In fact, it is estimated that one out of five adults in Arizona is obese, and the prevalence has more than doubled in Arizona over the last 15 years.

Media coverage of this issue has continually increased since 1995, making the public more aware of the effect that poor nutrition and physical inactivity have on our health. More and more individuals are striving to manage their weight by making healthy food choices when they eat out.

The Arizona Smart Choice program helps consumers identify healthy menu options.

The facts:

• Overweight and obesity puts people at greater risk for cardiovascular disease, diabetes, cancer, hypertension and asthma.
• In 2006, 59.6% of Arizona’s population was overweight and/or obese. Source: Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System, 2006
• From 1976-2004, the percentage of children under age 11, who are overweight, has more than doubled. For adolescents ages 12-19, the percentage has more than tripled.

Source: National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey