Childhood obesity has been a major discussion across the United States. Many fast food places have begun offering healthier alternatives as a way to combat the growing epidemic.
A new State of Obesity report shows state-by-state differences and just how serious the problem has become in children between the ages of 10-17.
According to the data, Mississippi ranked number one in states with the most childhood obesity.
Nine of the 10 states with the highest rates are in the South. Nine of the 10 states with the lowest rates are either in the West or Northeast.
Maryland has the 19th highest obesity rate for youth 10-17 and 26th highest for adults in the nation.
Maryland's adult obesity rate is currently 31.3%, up from 19.6% in 2000 and from 10.8% in 1990.
Nationally, 15.8% of youth between 10-17, roughly one and six, have obesity.
