Jeff J Mitchell/Getty Images

America’s obesity problem hits close to home: today, over half of LA County’s adult population is overweight or obese, a figure consistent with the growth trend seen between 1997 and 2007, when the percentage of the county’s residents – including children – jumped from 14% to 22%. Given health, economic, and other disparities within our region, obesity and its effects have afflicted some segments of our population more than others. Yet quality-of-life, workforce productivity, and health care costs have implications for the region as a whole.

On Tuesday, July 17th, KPCC’s Jose Martinez moderated “Weighing In: Addressing Obesity in L.A. County” at The Crawford Family Forum. This child and teen obesity focused program looked at clips from the HBO/Institute of Medicine documentary series “Weight of the Nation” and discussed the realities of dealing with obesity in and around Los Angeles.

 Moderator:

Jose Martinez (KPCC OnCentral reporter)

Panelists:

Dr. Eric Walsh (Director, Pasadena Public Health Department)

Jackie Hernandez (Greater LA director, American Heart Association)

Carlos Morales (Founder, Eastside Bike Club)