Childhood Obesity Prevention

In  the summer of 2006, the Foundation for Healthy Communities conducted chart reviews in 25 primary care physician practices across New Hampshire to document the prevalence of childhood overweight and obesity among children ages 6-12 years old. In total, 1453 medical records were reviewed, and the New Hampshire Childhood Obesity Report revealed that 32.8% of children in this age group were overweight or obese. Further, we found that there was an opportunity to improve prevention and treatment services for childhood overweight not only in pediatric and family health care practices, but also in NH communities.
 

In the fall of 2006, the Foundation established the NH Childhood Obesity Expert Panel and asked participants to develop practical recommendations for New Hampshire communities that wish to implement strategies for the prevention of childhood obesity. This spring, we introduce you to the product of the hard work, expertise, and dedication of the panel: Preventing Childhood Obesity: Promoting Physical Activity and Healthy Eating.
The resounding message in the recommendations is that this is not about weight, but about the health of our communities' children. The risks of being overweight or obese increase the risk of a number of serious medical conditions, including heart disease and stroke, high blood pressure, Type II diabetes, sleep apnea, respiratory problems and some cancers. Here, we provide recommendations and resources to help communities and families take the first steps towards prevention.
 

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CATCH Kids Club
HEAL
Walk New Hampshire