May 27, 2008 6:00 pm US/Eastern
Health: American Children & Weight
PHILADELPHIA (CBS 3) ―
After 25 years of steadily packing on the pounds, American youngsters appear to have hit a plateau, according to new research from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
"This is a dramatic change from what we had seen in previous years," said Dr. Karen Dorsey, a childhood obesity researcher.
The childhood obesity epidemic took off in the 1980's. But in the past couple of years, the rates have stabilized with about 32 percent of children being overweight and 16 percent obese.
"It's good to eat apples and bananas," said David Barrose, 4th Grader.
Fairhill Elementary is one of five Philadelphia schools with a special nutrition program.
"What is healthy and what is not healthy," said Gabrielle Hudnell, 4th Grader.
Obesity rates dropped 50 percent with school snacks that were healthier. Parents were included and kids taught to make healthier food choices.
"I think it gives us a signal that school interventions can be effective," said Dr. Gary Foster, with Temple University.
He says children also need to learn about making healthy selections in neighborhood stores and fast food restaurants.
"If we can make the environment more conductive to eating better and moving more I think we'll be a step in the right direction," said Dr. Foster.
Better food choices are a big part of the battle, but experts say it's also important for children to be more active, get away from the television and computer.
RELATED LINKS:
Child & Teen BMI Calculator
Obesity In Children
U.S. Department of Health & Human Services
CDC - Tips For Parents
Checklist For Parents
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