August 20, 2008

A new report says Mississippi again is America's fattest state, and adult obesity rates across the nation are on a steady climb.

Nationally, adult obesity rates rose in 37 states in the past year. That's according to the report released Tuesday by Trust for America's Health and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. The report said no state saw a decrease.

The report said Mississippi's adult obesity rate is 31.7 percent -- the highest in the nation. It was followed by West Virginia with 30.6 percent; Alabama with 30.1 percent; Louisiana with 29.5 percent and South Carolina with 29.2 percent.

Pete Smith, spokesman for Mississippi Gov. Haley Barbour, said the state has taken steps to encourage residents to live a healthier lifestyle.

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