Health department says 35% of Hamilton County residents are obese

HAMILTON COUNTY, Tenn. (WDEF) – The Health Department’s Picture of Our Health assessment shows a rise in obesity in Hamilton County.  

“At the current time, 35% of all residents are classified as obese,” said Dr. Dawn Ford, Epidemiology Manager at Hamilton County Health Department.  

Dr. Ford explains why it is important to raise awareness about obesity.  

“Obesity is only a disease, but it is a risk factor for other diseases. So, people who are obese are more likely to have heart disease,” said Dr. Ford. “For example, asthma, they can suffer from more severe complications if they are obese and have other health conditions.”

According to the CDC, more than 40% in the United States are obese. Just a little worse than Hamilton County. Ford says being obese is a big deal.  

“Obesity can be impacted if someone has lack of access to physical activity, lack of access to healthy foods. So, for example, in low-income areas where they may not have access to a grocery store to get fresh fruits and vegetables, they are more likely to be obese,” Ford said. 

Nearly a quarter of the people who were surveyed said they do not get any exercise outside of the physical activity they have at work. 

However, Ford says there is still hope as obesity is treatable.

“Obesity is really tough. They could see their health care provider, so that they are up to date on their screenings and get advice from their physician. Try to get more exercise and eat more healthy. There is a lot of resources out there for those who are obese, But I would start first with their health care provider.”