By Illinois Radio Network
Springfield, IL – The American Heart Association says social structure is a big part of the country's obesity problem.
Association Spokeswoman Kate Cohorst says if people find it easier to find walk somewhere to buy fresh produce, then they're more likely to do that than drive to a fast-food joint. She says a population-based approach could go a long way toward preventing obesity.
Cohorst says treating an individual who is overweight or obese is still important, but she says making healthy alternatives more available is key in helping folks avoid health problems such as obesity, diabetes, and heart disease.
About 67 million American adults are obese, and an additional 75 million are overweight, according to the 2001-04 U.S. National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. About 4.2 million children 6-11 years old and 5.7 million adolescents (age 12-19) are also overweight.
