1. The Burden of Obesity in North Carolina Obesity-Related Chronic Disease

2. More than half (53%) of all deaths of North Carolinians are preventable. Overweight and obesity are significantly associated with diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, asthma, arthritis, and poor health status. Inadequate fruits and vegetables, lack of leisure time physical activity, obesity, and overweight make up 80% of N.C.s risk factor or behaviors.

3. Preventable Causes of Death in N.C. State Center for Health Statistics, North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, (2007).

4. The Burden of Obesity in North Carolina Oral Health

5. Oral Health and Obesity Periodontitis (gum disease) occurs almost twice as frequently in obese individuals as in those at a healthy weight. Periodontitis was found 76% more frequently in obese adults, aged 18 to 34 years, than in age- matched adults at a healthy weight. Children who are obese are at an increased risk for dental caries.