September is National Childhood Obesity Awareness Month

By: Jose G. Landa, Eagle Pass Business Journal, Inc., Copyright 2015

One in three (33.3%) children in the United States are overweight or obese. Childhood obesity puts children at risk for health-related problems that were once seen only in adults such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart disease. September 2015 has been designated as National Childhood Obesity Awareness Month. First Lady Michelle Obama has championed the prevention of childhood obesity and overweight through her White House initiatives to get children to eat healthier and become involved in physical activity on a daily basis for a balanced lifestyle.

Maverick County has a considerable problem with childhood obesity with a population risk factor of approximately 27% of childhood obesity according to the Child Policy Research Center.

Data from the study “The State of Obesity” states that 40.7% of Latino boys are obese or overweight compared with only 27.8% of White boys. 18 states do show a decline on obesity rates for young children from low income families. The data also states that nationally 7 of the 10 states with the highest rates for ages 10-17 of childhood obesity are in the southern United States.

Approximately 16.9% of children in the U.S. are obese while 31.8 % are either obese or overweight, according to the study.

The good news is that childhood obesity can be prevented. Communities, health professionals, and families can work together to create opportunities for children to eat healthier and get more active through exercise.

One way that the community can make a difference for kids is to initiate sound strategies for preventing childhood obesity and encouraging community, organizations to get involved in the prevention of childhood obesity and overweight.

We can all use this month to raise awareness about the obesity epidemic and show people how they can take steps toward a solution and assuring our children’s healthy and vibrant future, possibly preventing health complications throughout their young years and into adulthood.

If you are the parent of an overweight or obese child or children, please consult with your family physician before taking any steps in either setting up any type of diet or exercise regime for your child.

For any information on setting up an appointment with a local pediatrician, you can call the United Medical Centers Main office at (830) 773-5358 or the Eidson Road Clinic at (830) 757-6946.