Physical activity levels among overweight and obese adults in South Carolina.

Abstract

Obesity in the United States has reached epidemic proportions and is a major cause of morbidity and mortality. We describe the activity levels of South Carolina adults on the basis of data derived from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System. Overweight and obese men and women reported less leisure time physical activity than did people of normal weight, with women found to be less active than men. Physical inactivity is more prevalent among obese and overweight men and women than among people of normal weight. Visiting the physician's office offers a unique opportunity to educate patients about the health benefits and appropriate amount of physical activity.