MS HC17

Recognizes the urgent need in Mississippi for cardiovascular risk reduction through screening and treatment of metabolic syndrome, citing the state's obesity rate of over 40% projected to reach 66.7% by 2030

Notes Mississippi spent $925 million in 2008 on obesity-related healthcare costs, and diabetes alone exceeded $2.74 billion in economic burden in 2012

Highlights that a 5% reduction in average BMI statewide could prevent 86,347 new cases of type 2 diabetes, 66,897 cases of coronary heart disease and stroke, and 56,741 cases of hypertension

Supports following clinical practice guidelines for aggressive cardiovascular risk reduction in patients affected by obesity and related chronic diseases

Calls for removing barriers to treatment including lack of insurance coverage for obesity treatments, food deserts, stigma, and disparities in access to care for racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic groups