Physical Activity Levels Among Overweight and Obese Adults in South Carolina

BACKGROUND: Obesity in the United States has reached epidemic proportions and is a major cause of morbidity and mortality. METHODS: 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. RESULTS: 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. CONCLUSION: 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.