Childhood Obesity

First Lady Michelle Obama’s recent visit to Atlanta, in order to highlight the first anniversary of her campaign to reduce childhood obesity, is a reminder of just how important that fight is.

According to the Centers for Disease Control, childhood obesity has more than tripled in the past 30 years. Among youth between ages 2 and 19, 17 percent were obese, according to a National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey.

On Feb. 9, Mrs. Obama visited the Burgess-Peterson Academy, a public elementary school in southeast Atlanta, to bring attention to its healthy eating program. Over the past year, she has traveled the country, speaking to officials, community leaders, schools and food makers about promoting healthier lifestyles.

“We’re seeing a real shift in our national conversation and on an issue that some people thought was a lost cause. We’re seeing more and more reasons for hope. But as much progress as we’ve made, we also know there’s still a long way to go,” she said in a recent video address on her initiative’s website.

“We know children who are overweight are more likely to be obese as adults. And it’s going to take even more people getting involved across the country – families, businesses, educators and anyone who has a stake in helping our children lead healthier, happier lives.”

As adults, we have the responsibility to make sure our children are not burdened by the many challenges posed by obesity. The earlier they learn how to eat healthy and make exercise a habit, the better off they’ll be focusing on their futures.

On LetsMove.gov, Mrs. Obama provides a wealth of information, strategies and ways to join her and get involved in reducing childhood obesity.


- Marcus E. Howard