Minnesota's Obesity Rates Steady As Neighbors' Rates Rise

MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) -  Minnesota's obesity rates have seen a small decline since 2007, while all four of Minnesota's neighboring states have seen their rates climb.

The number of Minnesotans at a health weight increased by more than 60,000 from 2010 to 2013, a Minnesota health department analysis of data from the Centers For Disease Control found.

Fewer than 26 percent of Minnesotans were counted as obese in 2013. The national obesity rate was about 29 percent, and Iowa, Wisconsin, North Dakota and South Dakota had rates between 29 and 31 percent.

U.S. and Regional Obesity Rates

The MDH estimates a savings $265 million in medical expenses between 2007 and 2013, including a savings of up to $9 million per year for Minnesota taxpayers.

The Statewide Health Improvement Program (SHIP) passed in 2008 may deserve part of the credit for the lack of growth in Minnesota's obesity rates.

"We know diet and exercise are key, and I am confident that Minnesota's success is closely tied to investments by the Statewide Health Improvement Program (SHIP) and its community and private sector partners to increase Minnesotans opportunities for healthy eating and physical activity," said Minnesota Commissioner of Health Dr. Ed Ehlinger in a statement.