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The Florida Department of Health works to protect, promote, and improve the health of all people in Florida through integrated state, county, and community efforts.

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Heathiest Weight

Ask Sumter

Ask Sumter

Why is healthy weight a priority for the Department of Health?

As we survey the health landscape, we see the #1 public health threat that challenges the bright future of Florida: weight. Currently, only 35% of Floridians are at a healthy weight. One quarter are obese, and the rest are overweight. On our current trend, by 2030, almost 60% will be obese.

The cost of care for chronic diseases from obesity alone - diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, and arthritis - are unsustainable, estimated to be $34B over the next 17 years.

Over the next 20 years in Florida, obesity could contribute to: 2,442,415 new cases of type 2 diabetes, 6,188,174 new cases of heart disease and stroke, 5,261,978 new cases of hypertension, 3,266,082 new cases of arthritis, and 869,214 new cases of obesity-related cancer.

set goals, eat your colors, move more, sit less

Healthiest Weight Florida is a public-private collaboration bringing together state agencies, not for profit organizations, businesses, and entire communities to help Florida’s children and adults make consistent, informed choices about healthy eating and active living.

What is involved with Healthiest Weight Florida? 

Healthiest Weight Florida was launched in Orlando at the State Surgeon General's Symposium on Healthiest Weight in January 2013. Through the initiative, the Department of Health is building collaborations and providing assistance to counties, community groups and other partners to implement programs that focus on:

  • Increasing the initiation, duration and exclusivity of breastfeeding.
  • Promoting improved nutrition and physical activity in early care and education.
  • Encouraging improved nutrition in schools.
  • Increasing the physical activity for students during the school day and after school programs.
  • Increasing access to high-quality, affordable foods in communities.
  • Increasing physical activity by improving the built environment in communities.

For more helpful links: 

Healthiest Weight Florida: www.HealthiestWeightFlorida.com

CDC BMI Information: www.cdc.gov/healthyweight/assessing/bmi/index.html

Choose My Plate (USDA): www.choosemyplate.gov

Fast Food Restaurant Calories: www.calorieking.com/foods/calories-in-fast-food-chains-restaurants_c-Y2lkPTIx.html

Healthiest Weight