September is National Childhood Obesity Awareness Month

National Childhood Obesity Awareness Month provides a chance for all of us to learn more about this serious health condition. While there is no simple solution, there are many ways communities can support children with their journey to good health.

Childhood Obesity Is a Major Public Health Problem

• Children with obesity are at higher risk for having other chronic health conditions and diseases, such as asthma, sleep apnea, bone and joint problems, and type 2 diabetes. They also have more risk factors for heart disease like high blood pressure and high cholesterol.

• Children with obesity can be bullied and teased more than their normal weight peers. They are also more likely to suffer from social isolation, depression, and lower self-esteem.

• Children with obesity are more likely to have obesity as adults. This can lead to lifelong physical and mental health problems. Adult obesity is associated with a higher risk of type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and many types of cancers.

Childhood Obesity Is Influenced by Many Factors

Many factors can have an impact on childhood obesity, including eating and physical activity behaviors, genetics, metabolism, family and home environment, and community and social factors. For some children and families, obesity may be influenced by the following:

• too much time spent being inactive

• lack of sleep

• lack of places to go in the community to get physical activity

• easy access to inexpensive, high calorie foods and sugary beverages

• lack of access to affordable, healthier foods

El Centro’s Commit to Be Fit Physical Activity Classes

The Commit to Be Fit program is a fitness component to increase physical activity in children, adults, and families and to teach the importance of healthier eating and regular exercise, which have immediate and long-term health benefits. For more information about new fall class schedule, click here.