,Obesity and Diabetes: Two Growing Epidemics in California

Obesity and Diabetes: Two Growing Epidemics in California


 

Publication Date: August 2010

Publisher: UCLA Center for Health Policy Research

Author(s): Susan H. Babey; Malia Jones

Research Area: Health

Keywords: obesity; diabetes; chronic diseases; california

Type: Report

Coverage: California

Abstract:

This policy brief provides an overview of diabetes and obesity prevalence in California using the most recent data from the 2007 California Health Interview Survey and comparing it to data from past surveys to examine trends over time.

The authors find that both obesity and diabetes have grown significantly in California. Six million adults are obese and an additional 9.3 million are overweight. Diabetes prevalence increased 26 percent between 2001 and 2007. Obesity is a significant risk factor for diabetes; more than two million adults have been diagnosed with diabetes in California. Obesity and diabetes disproportionately affect people of color, the poor and those with the least education in California.

The authors recommend policy and environmental changes that promote and encourage physical activity and healthy eating as those most likely to prove effective in combating obesity and related conditions.

This policy brief provides an overview of diabetes and obesity prevalence in California using the most recent data from the 2007 California Health Interview Survey and comparing it to data from past surveys to examine trends over time.

The authors find that both obesity and diabetes have grown significantly in California. Six million adults are obese and an additional 9.3 million are overweight. Diabetes prevalence increased 26 percent between 2001 and 2007. Obesity is a significant risk factor for diabetes; more than two million adults have been diagnosed with diabetes in California. Obesity and diabetes disproportionately affect people of color, the poor and those with the least education in California.

The authors recommend policy and environmental changes that promote and encourage physical activity and healthy eating as those most likely to prove effective in combating obesity and related conditions.

The development of this policy brief was supported by The California Endowment.