Causecast

by CLAIRE DALTON, Contributing Writer

1. In a report by the Trust for America’s Health, adult obesity rates have increased in 23 states, while not a single state’s rates grew smaller. In an interactive map released with the report, it’s clear that these behaviors are transferring to their children. As of 2009, 32% of US children and adolescents are overweight or obese.

2. Childhood obesity rates are the worst in Mississippi, Arkansas, and Georgia, where 44.4% of the child population is overweight or obese. The rates are best in Minnesota, Utah, and Oregon, where “only” 23.1% of children are overweight or obese. That’s still almost a quarter of the children in these states.

3. One of the main causes of childhood obesity is the lack of vigorous exercise. Budget cuts have been critical in this problem, as after-school sports programs and gym classes have suffered large casualties nation-wide. Recess is also being cut short in many areas, despite the fact that 78% of Americans oppose the reduced time and would prefer a longer recess to an extra academic class. It is recommended that children and adolescents get at least 60 minutes of vigorous exercise every day, including bone- and muscle-strengthening activities. According to the Journal of the American Medical Association, only 35% of high school students met this standard, while 35% also watched three or more hours of television on an average school day.

4. Many folks are also concerned with the quality of food their children receive at school. The Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine has found that the majority of U.S. school menus are too high in saturated fat and cholesterol, and too low in fruits, vegetables and legumes, losing valuable opportunities for the nutrients and fiber for healthy growth. In addition to these concerns, there is also much discussion surrounding the availability of high-calorie snacks, desserts, and sodas in vending machines in schools. You can help children in your community by speaking with your school district about your concerns. Movements like The Healthy School Lunch campaign can help you get started.

5. A new study has revealed that children as young as seven are at risk for heart disease and stroke, even when no other risk factors are present. Advocates for children’s health are asking doctors to treat pre-pubescent children for obesity even if there aren’t other signs of the metabolic syndrome, as it can still contribute to higher risks later in life and can start supporting healthier life choices in their formative years.

6. “Adult onset” diabetes is no more: the American Diabetes Association has now declared Type II Diabetes among America’s youth an “epidemic,” losing the initial age distinction. Today it accounts for up to 45% of pediatric diabetes cases, and is most prominent and severe in children of African, Hispanic, Asian and Native American descent.

7. In addition to the physical problems associated with obesity, overweight and obese children are also more likely to suffer from a variety of mental health problems, such as low self-esteem, eating disorders, and depression. In fact, these children are 60% more likely to suffer from depression, 40% more likely to bully others, 70% more likely to be told by a doctor that they have behavioral problems, and 40% more likely to have feelings of worthlessness, according to the Trust for American’s Health most recent study.

8. While overweight or obese children can lose weight, they will never lose the extra fat cells. That means that they will have to fight harder to maintain a healthy weight their entire lives. Prevention is therefore key in preparing our children for a healthy adolescence and adulthood.

9. Preventing and treating childhood obesity should involve the whole family; after all, one of the first ways children learn is by imitating. The Mayo Clinic suggests that you start with small changes, like taking a family walk after dinner once a week, and set reasonable, measurable goals. Provide incentives, like a trip to the movie, and be sure to reward your child with praise when they meet their goals.

10. If you want to help promote healthy nutrition and exercise to today’s youth to prevent childhood obesity, you can get involved in a variety of different initiatives. Get tips to help your local schools from the National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention. Help promote important physical activities by donating jump ropes, soccer balls, rollerblades and bikes to local schools, churches or other groups in your community. And wherever possible, donate your time to mentoring children; many schools have after-school programs that are constantly looking for volunteers for various activities. Go in and teach about healthy nutrition and make healthy snacks together, or plan a brisk hike nearby.

Photo by robad0b, flickr