Let's Commit to Changing the Trends in Childhood Obesity

Overweight and obesity is increasing in children.  CDC reports that data from NHANES surveys (1976–1980 and 2003–2006) show that the prevalence of obesity has increased  for children aged 2–5 years from 5.0% to 12.4%; for those aged 6–11 years from 6.5% to 17.0%; and for those aged 12–19 years from 5.0% to 17.6%.  According to the CDC, the increase in childhood obesity is due to the interaction of a number of factors, including genetic, behavioral, and environmental factors.  The result is a child who consumes more calories than they use and that causes overweight and obesity.

The major behavioral factors that lead to obesity include:

·         food intake

o   sugar-sweetened drinks

o   large portion sizes

o   frequent snacking on energy dense foods

·         physical activity

o   Daily participation in school physical education among adolescents dropped 14 percentage points over the last 13 years — from 42% in 1991 to 28% in 2003.

o   Less than one-third (28%) of high school students meet currently recommended levels of physical activity.

·         sedentary behavior

o   increased time spent watching TV, playing video games, and other computer activities.

Environmental factors that can influence a child’s behavior related to food intake and physical activity include home, child care, school, and community environments.

·         Home environment: parents are role models for their children.  A home environment that models healthy eating and physical activity has a positive impact on the health of the children.

·         Child care: almost 80% of children aged 5 years and younger with working mothers are in child care for 40 hours a week on average.  The approach to food and physical activity during this developmental time is critical to developing healthy habits.

·         Schools: physical education and healthy meals are basic responsibilities of the schools.  Implementing programs that create a culture of health in the schools is a goal that should be set.

·         Communities: access to physical activity opportunities and access to affordable and healthy foods in the community are keys to a healthy community.

As we develop ‘21^st Century Healthy Communities’ these factors are important to consider as a basis for solutions to the problems of overweight and obesity in our nation.  As we approach the summer months, make a resolution to implement one solution to improve food choices and one solution to increase activity in your family.  This can be as simple as changing from ‘sweet’ to ‘unsweet’ tea and taking a family walk after dinner.  Start your family on a healthier path today.