The Impact of Obesity in Children
Obesity is increasing rapidly in the United States, affecting children, adolescents, and adults of all races, ethnicities, and income levels.
Since 1980, the percentage of obese children aged 6 to 11 has doubled, and the percentage of obese adolescents aged 12 to 19 has tripled. Childhood obesity has both immediate and long-term serious health impacts.
• In some communities, almost half of pediatric diabetes cases are type 2 diabetes, which was once believed to affect only adults.
• In one large study, 61% of obese 5- to 10-year-olds already had risk factors for heart disease, and 26% had two or more risk factors for the disease.
• Obese children have a greater risk of social and psychological problems, such as discrimination and poor self-esteem.
• Obese children have a 70% chance of being overweight or obese as adults—facing higher risks for many diseases, such as heart disease, diabetes, stroke, and several types of cancers.
The costs of treating obesity-related diseases are staggering and rising rapidly. In 2004, direct and indirect health costs associated with obesity were 98 billion. Good eating habits and regular physical activity are critical for maintaining a healthy weight. Unfortunately, less than 25% of adolescents eat enough fruits and vegetables each day. Sixty-four percent of high school students don’t meet currently recommended levels of physical activity.
The Role of Schools in Preventing Childhood Obesity
Reversing the obesity epidemic requires a long-term, well-coordinated approach to reach young people where they live, learn, and play, and schools have an important role. Working with other public, voluntary, and private sector organizations, schools can play a critical role in reshaping social and hysical environments and providing information, tools, and practical strategies to help students adopt healthy lifestyles.
• More than 95% of young people are enrolled in schools.
• Students have the opportunity to eat a large portion of their daily food intake and to be physically active at school.
• Schools are an ideal setting for teaching young people how to adopt and maintain a healthy, active lifestyle.
• Research shows that well-designed, well-implemented school programs can effectively promote physical activity and healthy eating.
• Emerging research documents the connections between physical activity, good nutrition, physical education and nutrition programs, and academic performance.
Source: Center for Disease Control and Prevention
