Strategic Goal By 2015, reduce childhood obesity to 15.5%, as measured by data from the Pediatric Nutrition Surveillance System (PedNSS)
Trend over time:
Why this is Important:
Obesity is a risk factor for many diseases and conditions, including heart disease and diabetes. This goal is aimed reducing obesity among children to prevent or control the devastating effects of these diseases in the community.
How Maricopa County government influences this goal:
County government has limited influence on the childhood obesity rate, but is committed to making an impact on the rate by 2015. County departments that work with young children, parents, and families, such as the Maricopa County Public Health Department, Human Services Department, Maricopa County Library District, and Maricopa County Education Services Agency, contribute to this goal through community outreach and education programs that promote healthy eating and exercise for all ages.
How progress is measured:
Childhood obesity rate in Maricopa County children ages 2 to 5 years. Children with a Body Mass Index-for-age at or above the 95th percentile are considered obese, and those with a BMI-for-age in the 85th–95th percentile are considered overweight.
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