Childhood Obesity

The Problem

Obesity is a growing epidemic in the United States. Today more than 5 million children between the ages of 6 and 17 years are overweight. Childhood obesity is a major public health concern. Studies indicate that at least 50 percent of obese children over age 6, and 75 percent of obese adolescents will become obese adults. Obesity related illness such as, Type II diabetes, high blood pressure and cholesterol lead to increased incidence of cardiovascular disease and death. This epidemic will create a tremendous burden to the nation's public health system.

Growing numbers of children today are eating convenience foods that are high in fat, sugar, and sodium in place of a balanced diet. This is compounded by a widespread decline in physical activity. Children today spend more of their free time in sedentary pursuits, sitting for hours in front of computers, television and video games instead of being engaged in outdoor and physical play.

Obesity has no boundaries, nor is it prejudice. It affects children in families of all socio-economic ranges, educational levels, and ethnic backgrounds, whether urban, suburban, or rural. Children and parents need practical tools and constant support to learn, practice, and make life-long healthy nutrition and physical exercise routine behavior.