About Nutrition, Physical Activity, and Obesity Prevention

Overweight and obesity are a complex, serious, and costly public health issues that affect two out of three South Carolina adults and one out of three South Carolina children. Overweight and obesity are linked to chronic diseases like diabetes, heart disease, and certain types of cancer. In 2022, the medical care cost of adult obesity in South Carolina is estimated at over $7 billon/year. The main risk factors for obesity and other chronic conditions include poor nutrition and lack of physical activity.

The SC Department of Health and Environmental Control works with partners across the state to address nutrition, physical activity, obesity, and other chronic conditions. These efforts include direct education, lifestyle interventions, and policy, systems, and environmental changes.