Parents, health care providers, and policymakers are all concerned about the dramatic increase in overweight children. Of course, all children gain weight as they grow older, but extra pounds can lead to childhood obesity, putting kids at risk for developing diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol.
Childhood obesity is a growing public health problem that hurts our kids
- Childhood obesity has more than tripled since 1980. (CDC)
- Today’s children are likely to be the first generation in two centuries to live less healthy and possibly even shorter lives then their parents. (New England Journal of Medicine)
- An estimated 61% of obese young people have at least one additional risk factor for heart disease, such as high cholesterol or high blood pressure. (Journal of Pediatrics)
Together we can grow healthy kids! The environment in which our children live, learn and play influences how they eat and how active they are. As a community we can make a difference by making healthier choices easier. Parents and all adults play a key role in growing healthy kids – learn more about steps we can take to help children build healthy habits.
What is Dakota County doing to reduce childhood obesity?