Obesity in Washington, D.C.

The District of Columbia (DC), the capital of the United States, has been grappling with the issue of obesity among its adult population. As of 2022, the adult obesity prevalence in DC is 24.3%, ranking it 54th in the United States. This is a significant public health concern, as obesity is linked to a variety of serious health conditions, including heart disease, diabetes, and certain types of cancer.

Prevalence

The prevalence of obesity in DC varies by age, race, and socioeconomic status. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the obesity rate among adults in DC is higher among those with lower incomes and less education. Additionally, racial and ethnic disparities exist, with higher rates of obesity observed among African American and Hispanic populations compared to their White counterparts.

Healthcare Facilities and Centers

Several healthcare facilities and centers in DC are dedicated to helping individuals manage their weight and improve their overall health. These include:

• MedStar Washington Hospital Center: This hospital offers a comprehensive weight loss surgery program, which includes nutritional counseling, psychological support, and post-operative care.

• George Washington University Hospital: The Weight Loss Surgery Center at this hospital provides a multidisciplinary approach to weight loss, offering both surgical and non-surgical treatment options.

• Children's National Hospital: This hospital has a specialized program for pediatric obesity, offering services such as nutritional counseling, physical activity recommendations, and behavioral health support.

• Unity Health Care: This community health center offers a variety of services to help individuals manage their weight, including nutrition counseling, exercise programs, and chronic disease management.

Efforts to Combat Obesity

The DC Department of Health has implemented several initiatives to combat obesity, including promoting healthy eating and physical activity, improving access to healthy foods in underserved areas, and implementing policies to promote health in schools and workplaces.

See Also

• Obesity in the United States
• Healthcare in the District of Columbia

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