Obesity Rates Rise in Washington SEATTLE, WA (KPLU) - You might think Washington and Oregon with their outdoorsy reputations would be trimmer and fitter than most other states. But that's not the case. The states are in the middle of the pack -- tied with Virginia for 28th most overweight. That means about 1/4 of adults are obese - and more than 60% are overweight. And, Washington is one of 23 states where obesity is still getting worse, over the past three years.

The report comes from a non-profit health group called the Trust for America's Health, which used federal data. Interestingly, Washington does rank as one of the most physically active states, so possibly we're a state of extremes, or we have a bigger problem with diet and portion-size. According to the report, Washington has done less than most other states to regulate foods sold in schools -- whether it's school lunches or vending machines.

Overall, Mississippi and Alabama have the highest percentage of obese residents, and Colorado has the lowest.


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