Too many children are overweight in this country. Stopping obesity in children decreases their risk of illness and disease when they get older.
The National Institutes of Health (NIH) calls obesity a devastating public-health crisis for the United States. Nearly one-third of adults are obese, and the frequency of obesity has more than doubled for children 2-5 years old, has tripled among youth 6-11 years old and has more than tripled among adolescents 12-19 years old.
Research has shown that obese children are more likely to be overweight or obese as adults. In adults, being overweight or obese leads to increased risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes (high blood sugar), high blood pressure, certain cancers, and other chronic conditions. The Military Health System (MHS) is promoting the 5210 Healthy Military Children Campaign to military children across the Services. 5210 encourages limiting screen time to 2 hours per day, getting 1 hour of physical activity per day, eating 5 servings of fruits and vegetables a day, and consuming 0 sugar-sweetened drinks.
Parents can receive health guidance and counseling (including breast-feeding and nutrition) when they take their children for their well-child exams. If you have concerns about your child’s weight, this is the perfect time to talk to their doctor. They can tell you where your child ranks in height and weight categories compared to other children their age.
To fight this epidemic, the NIH has established Ways to Enhance Children’s Activity & Nutrition (We Can!®), a national education program to help children stay at a healthy-weight through community action, strategic partnerships and national news and events. The MHS has also established strategic partnerships with DoD Education Activities and schools surrounding military communities to broaden the reach of promoting health and wellness through school activities, like scheduling recess before lunch, and fun after school programs.
Obesity happens one pound at a time and so does preventing it. Each day we can take small steps that will make a lasting impact. Our children are the future. Let’s help them stay healthy enough to see it.
