Foods that are high in sugar, fat & processed are inexpensive.
Healthy foods, health clubs, personal trainers & various fitness centers are expensive.
According to the 2011 Gallup and Healthways survey, the adult obesity rates were higher than 15% in all but three of the 190 metropolitan areas. The Las Vegas-Paradise, Nevada rate is at 23.3%. The total estimated obesity cost for the metro area is $633,561,900. If the obesity rate rate dropped to 15% within the Las Vegas metro area; the savings would be estimated to be $225,689,432.
The biggest challenge is to shift urban residents lifestyle by providing healthy foods and safe places to exercise at an affordable price. The fact is that the 89101 ZIP code (including Downtown Las Vegas) has the lowest average income in the Las Vegas valley of $36,058.
As the obesity rate increases, it is in the best interest for the city to advocate a healthier more sustainable lifestyle within the community.
Sources: http://www.gallup.com/poll/153143/Obese-Nearly-Metro-Areas.aspx#2; http://www.lasvegassun.com/news/2011/mar/31/average-household-income/