Obesity rate

A government survey released last week shows Missouri is a big state -- at least when it comes to our weight.

According to the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention, 30.3 percent of Missourians are obese. Along with Missouri, 11 other states also have an obesity rate of at least 30 percent. This includes: Alabama, Arkansas, Indiana, Kentucky, Louisiana, Michigan, Mississippi, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Texas and West Virginia.

This is concerning. Being overweight can lead to a number of issues. From an increased risk to heart disease, cancer and diabetes to higher health care costs, these are real concerns.

Losing weight and living a healthy lifestyle comes down to personal responsibility. For some it may be as simple as portion control and starting a moderate exercise program.

This summer the Cape Girardeau Area Chamber of Commerce again held its Shape Up Cape program. Each week the results appeared on the Health page of this paper.

Shape Up Cape and other efforts that encourage exercise and healthy living are good programs. But we can all choose to get moving. Take the stairs; ride a bike; choose a parking space farther away. For others, you might want to seek the support of a personal trainer. Regardless, it comes down to personal responsibility.

We understand that weight issues vary person to person. Some may have other medical issues, and we encourage you to seek the advice of a doctor before starting a program.

We can all do something to live a healthier life. Now is the time to start that effort.