Obesity Rates Falling for Many Preschoolers, Still Not Enough: CDC

A recent report issued by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) shows that while childhood obesity rates may be on the decline among preschoolers, there is much more progress to be made.

In low-income areas, obesity rates finally began to level off between 2003 and 2008 after decades of rising. Now, data show small gains may be occurring. In all, obesity among low-income preschoolers declined "slightly" in 19 of 43 states and territories, while increasing in three others.  

Still, the CDC warns, numbers are high with one in eight preschoolers currently obese, and seeing as obese and overweight preschoolers are five times more likely to become overweight or obese adults, the agency is calling on state and local officials in addition to parents and guardians to take an active role in helping children everywhere lead healthier lives.

Creating partnerships with community members such as civic leaders and child care providers in order to make community changes that promote healthy eating and active living is one way, for example, the CDC suggests officials to get involved. Making it easier for families with children to buy healthy, affordable food and drinks in their neighborhood is another.

Safe, free drinking water in parks, recreation areas, child care centers and schools can help prevent the consumption of high-sugar drinks as well and making sure gyms, playgrounds and sports fields are open during non-school hours will give kids a chance to spend more time engaged in active play.

The CDC counsels child care providers to take an active role as well, whether by serving fruits and vegetables for meals and snacks or limiting the time preschoolers watch TV or use the computer.

Finally, the report calls upon doctors to measure children's weight, height and body mass index routinely and engage in conversations about nutrition and physical activity as well as connecting families with community resources such as nutrition education and breastfeeding support services.