Reducing morbidity and mortality related to overweight and obesity is a national public health priority. Obesity is a contributor to many diseases and conditions, including heart disease, stroke, hypertension, diabetes, several types of cancer, osteoarthritis, asthma, sleep apnea, pregnancy complications, and depression. The situation in Michigan is particularly acute. According to the Michigan Surgeon General’s report, Prescription for a Healthier Michigan:

• Michigan has ranked in the top 10 states for obesity for over 10 years.
• Sixty-two percent of our adult population (nearly two of every three adults) is obese or overweight. Many Michigan citizens become disabled as a result of obesity.
• Twelve percent of high school students are overweight, and another 15 percent are nearly overweight.
• Physicians all across Michigan are treating children who have clogged arteries, high blood pressure and Type 2 diabetes, previously considered adult conditions.

Known internationally as a major U.S. public university with global reach, Michigan State University has been advancing knowledge and transforming lives through innovative teaching, research, and outreach since 1855. The MSU Obesity Interest Group enables the campus wide collaboration and cross-discipline research required to effectively study the causes, impact, and interventions related to overweight and obesity.