Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota (Blue Cross) and the Minnesota Department of Health recently addressed the obesity epidemic in Minnesota, and suggested ways to improve the health in the state, according to a report in Physical Activity and Health Eating in Minnesota: Addressing the Root Causes of Obesity.

Despite residents acknowledging the health issue, becoming healthier has been prohibited by unhealthy surroundings and a lack of effort by individuals. Among the contributors to obesity, poor eating habits and unphysical activity are the leading reasons why some people aren’t losing weight.

To help residents of Minnesota get healthier, the report lists a number of weight loss initiatives that will take place, including funding projects to improve the accessibility of healthy food at schools and communities, and redesigning streets to make them safer for walking and biking, allowing people more opportunities to exercise. Blue Cross will also provide free online health assessments, coaching modules, a body mass calculator and discounts on health eating plans on their website.

“We can stop this epidemic and help Minnesotans manage their current weight and prevent future weight gain by approaching it from all angles – working with individuals, businesses and communities – to encourage moving more and eating better,” said Marc Manley, a physician and chief prevention officer at Blue Cross.

In addition to state-wide efforts to prevent childhood obesity, First Lady Michelle Obama has launched Let’s Move, a nationwide campaign to help provide healthy food and exercise opportunities for children across the country.