Casperites if you struggle with weight issues here's a chance to get some education about obesity. Weight issues can contribute to many causes of death, such as heart disease and diabetes. The numbers are staggering and the job will be tough but many organizations in the Casper community are ready for the battle.

In the United States, 68 percent of adults age 20 and older are overweight or obese, while 31.7% of the nation’s children and adolescents ages two to 19 are overweight or obese. Obesity contributes to five of the 10 leading causes of death in America, including heart disease, type 2 diabetes, many cancers and stroke.

As part of its effort to help combat the obesity epidemic in our community, Wyoming Cancer Resources Services, Casper-Natrona County Health Department, University of Wyoming Extension and Cent$ible Nutrition, the Prevention Management Organization, Mountain-Pacific Quality Health, and Casper Recreation are hosting a screening of the four-part HBO documentary on Wednesdays, February 19, 26, March 5 and 12 at the Casper Recreation Center, 1801 East 4th Street at 11:30 a.m. Three years in the making, THE WEIGHT OF THE NATION examines the facts and myths of this urgent public health issue, showing how obesity affects the health of the nation and the health care system. The film features case studies and interviews with leading experts, individuals and families struggling with obesity. The series also highlights how individuals, worksites, and communities are making positive changes.

A discussion and Q&A session will follow each screening, and attendees will be given tips and materials for managing a healthy lifestyle and for making positive changes in our community. Additionally, staff of the Casper Recreation Division will provide free orientation to fitness equipment at the Recreation Center from 11:00 to 11:25 a.m. each week of THE WEIGHT OF THE NATION screenings. Healthy snacks will be provided at each screening.

Caitlyn Murray, Wyoming Cancer Resources Services Program Manager said, “Obesity has become a serious threat to the health of our nation, and it is important that we facilitate community action now to help reduce the obesity rates and improve the health of our community members.” The Wyoming Cancer Resources Services Program is responsible for providing cancer prevention education for various Wyoming counties.

THE WEIGHT OF THE NATION is a presentation of HBO and the Institute of Medicine, in association with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the National Institutes of Health, and in partnership with the Michael & Susan Dell Foundation and Kaiser Permanente.

There is no fee for this program, however, pre-registration is appreciated by phoning or notifying Casper Recreation, 1801 East 4th Street, phone: 235-8383.

 

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