• 97 million Americans are considered either overweight (body mass index of 25-29) or obese (body mass index of 30 and more).
• 62 percent of Minnesotans are overweight or obese, similar to the national average.
• Since 1971, obesity quadrupled among 6- to 11-year-olds nationwide; tripled among 12- to 19-year-olds.
• Obesity is blamed for more than 20 serious diseases.
• The financial burden of obesity in Minnesota costs an estimated $1.3 billion per year.
• Physical activity of elementary and high school students stayed about the same since 1998 despite steep weight gains.
Sources: Washington County 2009 community health assessment and Minnesota Health Department. TIPPING THE SCALES
To calculate your body mass index, go to
