Workplace Health Strategies
Obesity
Obesity is common, serious, and costly. According to the CDC, more than one-third of U.S. adults (35.7%) are obese. The state of South Dakota is encouraging workplaces to promote healthy lifestyles through healthy eating and physical activity to reduce the number of chronic diseases that occur from obesity.
The workplace provides an opportunity for positive influence on today’s workers. Employers who promote and provide a workplace that supports and addresses physical activity and nutrition through environmental and policy changes will help employees to overcome and reduce overweight and obesity.
Health Consequences of Being Obese
- Coronary heart disease
- Type 2 diabetes
- Cancers (endometrial, breast, and colon)
- Hypertension (high blood pressure)
- Dyslipidemia (for example, high total cholesterol or high levels of triglycerides)
- Stroke
- Liver and gallbladder disease
- Sleep apnea and respiratory problems
- Osteoarthritis (a degeneration of cartilage and its underlying bone within a joint)
- Gynecological problems (abnormal menses, infertility)
Strategies to Prevent Obesity
- Know your body mass index (BMI)
- Achieve and maintain a healthy weight
- Get regular physical activity
- Partner with a local dietitian to provide nutrition education
- Strategies for increasing physical activity
Better Choices, Better Health® SD Workshops
Millions of people live with chronic health conditions. BCBH-SD offers FREE workshops for adults and their caregivers to help them manage symptoms, be more active, and improve quality of life. Find out more about virtual & in-person sessions in South Dakota.
