Public health takes on obesity: A route to better health
Obesity is a serious and costly health problem facing our nation. The number of kids and teens who are obese has nearly tripled in the past three decades, leading to a generation at risk for cardiovascular diseases, diabetes and other serious health problems. However, there is hope. For the first time in recent years, obesity rates have declined. Innovative public health approaches and partnerships are contributing to improved food choices and creating opportunities for physical activity, helping to curb obesity. We must continue to fund public health programs to ensure healthy futures for all of our nation’s children.
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- Obesity rate tripled
- One in three kids
- Obesity rate 1980
- Lives lost
- Premature deaths
- Direct costs: Finkelstein, E., Fiebelkorn, C., & Wang, G. (2005). The costs of obesity among full-time employees. American Journal of Health Promotion: AJHP, 20 (1), 45-51.
- Indirect costs: Finkelstein, E. A., daCosta DiBonaventura, M., Burgess, S. M., & Hale, B. C. (2010). The costs of obesity in the workplace. Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, 52(10), 971-976.
- Decline in obesity rates
- Safe Streets Baltimore
- Farm-to-school; National Farm to School Network
- Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program
- Proximity to parks
- Safe Routes to School California
Childhood Obesity in Early Care and Education, second edition