By KWMU/AP
SAINT LOUIS, MO – A report issued Tuesday says that Missouri's obesity rate is rising.
The study by Trust for America's Health lists Missouri as the 13th most obese state in the nation, with 27.4% of its adult population obese and 63.3% either obese or overweight.
Mississippi led the nation with a 31.7% percent obesity rate.
The report, dubbed F is for Fat, uses a three-year average to determine obesity rates.
Rising food costs, larger portions and a lack of exercise all are blamed for the national increase. The report says part of the challenge is figuring out how to best fix the problem when government resources are tight.
In Missouri, a state initiative is working to promote healthy
living.