Mississippi expands obesity response as rates continue to climb 

Mississippi faces a worsening obesity crisis, with projections showing 57% of adults could be classified as obese by 2030.

State health officials say the epidemic is fueling chronic disease and infant mortality. Without major intervention, they warn, the health care system could be overwhelmed.

To counter the crisis, multiple state agencies are rolling out coordinated programs to expand treatment access, improve nutrition education and promote physical activity.

Growing crisis with deep health consequences

Mississippi ranks among the worst in national health outcomes, with about 1.2 million adults — roughly 40% of the population — classified as obese, according to federal data. Only West Virginia and Arkansas have higher rates, per Statista.

Obesity significantly increases the risk of