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Physical Activity and Nutrition

Oklahoma, as well as many states across the nation, has seen a steady increase in rates of obesity over the past two decades. 36.4% of adults in Oklahoma are considered obese. 

Behaviors such as consumption of calorie-rich foods, diets high in fat, physical inactivity, and excessive alcohol consumption in addition to genetics, stress, and poor emotional health contribute to a person’s risk for obesity. Furthermore, obesity increases a person’s risk of serious health conditions including hypertension, type 2 diabetes, heart disease and stroke, sleep apnea and breathing problems, some cancers, and mental illness such as depression and anxiety. As a result, obesity and related conditions have contributed to medical expenditures exceeding $1 billion a year in Oklahoma.

The Physical Activity and Nutrition team is housed within the Community Analysis and Linkages area of Community Development Services. Community Analysis and Linkages provides technical assistance and consultation on community-based assessment and program planning, capacity building, strategy implementation, and appropriate evaluation to enhance community programs and strengthen ties between statewide infrastructure and local operations.

Oklahoma State Obesity Plan Stakeholders Group

The State Obesity Plan Stakeholders Group is comprised of multidisciplinary partners with the similar purpose of working to reduce obesity rates and prevent obesity in Oklahoma. This group convenes to identify and implement evidence-based goals and objectives. Stakeholders are any professional or volunteer who works at the intersection of obesity and their field.

Stakeholders participate in one or more lifespan categorized sub-committees:

  • Early Childhood
  • School Age
  • Adults
  • Older Adults
  • All Ages / Cross – Cutting

Vision: Enhance the wellbeing of Oklahomans

Mission: Improve sustainable access to a healthy environment by empowering statewide collaboration through evidence-based practices and innovation

To learn more about the State Obesity Plan Stakeholders Group or how you can get involved, please e-mail CAL@health.ok.gov


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