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A new report released earlier this month shows the adult obesity rate in Tennessee is more than 30 percent, the fourth highest in the nation. The younger generation is at risk, as well, with a childhood obesity rate of more than 35 percent here in the Volunteer State. Obesity is a major risk factor for type 2 diabetes, and it is estimated that more than 20 million Americans are diabetic. Of those 20 million, 9.7 million are women. These figures have given way to a new term, diabesity.

"Diabesity refers to a new description for diabetes caused by excessive weight," says Blount Memorial Weight Management Center certified diabetes educator Whitney Roberts. The term reflects the close association between weight and diabetes. Roberts points out weight gain is the No. 1 risk factor for developing type 2 diabetes. There are many factors influencing obesity and diabetes rates. "Sedentary lifestyles, an increase in junk food consumption, supersizing of portions and emotional eating are just a few of those factors," says Roberts. The health consequences of these lifestyle choices are devastating.

"Women with diabetes are more likely to have a heart attack, and at a younger age, than women without diabetes," Roberts says. A woman who has gestational diabetes or has given birth to a baby weighing more than nine pounds is at a greater risk for developing type 2 diabetes later in life. Roberts points out other complications from diabetes can arise such as stroke, kidney failure, amputations and even blindness. "That's why patient education is so important," she says. People need to understand that there are ways to reduce their weight and decrease the risk for developing type 2 diabetes. "It all goes back to a healthy diet and exercise," Roberts says. A 5 to 7 percent reduction in weight can decrease the risk of developing diabetes, so a large amount of weight doesn't have to be lost before results can be seen, she says.

Roberts also points out diabesity isn't just affecting adults. "We are now seeing overweight children and adolescents that have developed type 2 diabetes," she says. Unfortunately, children are the target of campaigns that encourage them to eat the wrong foods and eat too much of them. "A change in sedentary lifestyle is essential in order for these children to lose weight and control their diabetes," says Roberts. One way to approach that is for families to become healthier together. Roberts emphasizes that parents can be good role models for their children by choosing healthier food options and engaging in regular physical activity. "This is the perfect time of year for families to become active together," says Roberts. She suggests spending some time together in the evenings walking the dog or riding bikes. It also is beneficial to sit down at the table together for a meal. "Research has shown that families that eat together, tend to eat healthier, more nutritious foods," she says.

It comes down to exercise and good nutrition practices. The basic components to gradual weight loss include developing healthy eating habits and increasing daily physical activity. "Small changes really can make a big difference in the overall health of a family," Roberts says.

The Women's Health column is provided by the staff and associates of Blount Memorial Hospital. It appears every Sunday in Women's Times. For more information on this column call 983-7211.