A Startling Increase In Obesity

By Dr. Brian McDonough, Medical Editor

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - It seems that I am constantly bringing up the point that we have concerns about obesity in this country. The latest comes from a group called The Trust for America's Health and the results of one of their recent studies are just startling.

Adult obesity rates increased in 31 states during the past year. A closer look at the numbers shows that the adult obesity rate rose from 15% in 1980 to 32% in 2004.

The news isn't any better when we talk about children The childhood obesity rate was actually worse. It tripled between 1980 and 2004 from 5% to 17%.

The key issues? A combination of poor nutrition and lack of physical activity.

The national goal is an obesity rate of 15% per state by 2010. Needless to say this is not being met .