LPB explores causes and solutions in new hour-long program

(Louisiana Statewide – October 23, 2024) – Obesity rates continue to climb in our state, presenting Louisiana with a growing health challenge that is impacting lives and straining healthcare systems statewide. Louisiana Public Broadcasting (LPB) explores the causes of obesity in our state and dives into potential solutions in the new Louisiana Spotlight: State of Weight, premiering Monday, October 28 at 8:00 PM on LPB’s statewide network and on WLAE-TV in New Orleans on Wednesday, October 30 at 8:00 PM. The program will also be available for streaming on the night of the broadcast premiere at www.lpb.org/louisianaspotlight, on the LPB YouTube channel, and with the LPB App.

In the hour-long special, LPB investigates the complex issue of obesity in Louisiana in an effort to better understand the factors that contribute to the epidemic. In the search for solutions, LPB explores innovative programs and breakthrough medications like GLP-1 that offer hope in combating rising weights. However, as these solutions emerge, questions of health equity arise. Who has access to these treatments, and who is left behind?

Through firsthand accounts from individuals struggling with obesity and insights from healthcare providers and policymakers, this special examines multifaceted approaches to addressing this critical health concern and the challenges in ensuring equitable access to effective treatments for all Louisianians.

Helping us explore the topic will be:

• Dr. Catherine Hudson | Assistant Professor at LSU School of Medicine
• Natalie Jayroe | President & CEO, Second Harvest Food Bank
• Dr. Shauna Levy | Assistant Professor at Tulane School of Medicine
• Dr. M.A. “Tonette” Krousel-Wood | Professor at Tulane School of Public Health

LPB’s Karen LeBlanc, co-anchor of Louisiana: The State We’re In will host.

Go to www.lpb.org/louisianaspotlight to explore past episodes of Louisiana Spotlight.

Louisiana Spotlight: State of Weight is being underwritten in part by the Pennington Family Foundation.

For more information, contact Colleen Spillane, Public Information Officer, Louisiana Public Broadcasting at (225)-767-4453 or 1-800-272-8161 ext. 4453 or by email at cspillane@lpb.org.

About Louisiana Public Broadcasting
Since 1975, Louisiana Public Broadcasting has been the public television network for the state of Louisiana with stations in Alexandria, Baton Rouge, Lafayette, Lake Charles, Monroe and Shreveport. LPB is also affiliated with WLAE-TV in New Orleans. In addition to its award-winning documentaries about the history and people of Louisiana, LPB is dedicated to helping children throughout the state develop their literacy, math, and science skills through its numerous educational outreach programs.