A ‘Patchwork of Progress’ on Childhood Obesity, but the Story Is Incomplete

How can we make sense of the just-released data on childhood obesity? On one hand, more than half of California counties registered increases from 2005 to 2010 in rates of overweight and obesity among fifth-, seventh-, and ninth-graders. Yet statewide, the prevalence of obesity largely held steady at 38%, a sign that our state may be getting a handle on the pressing issue of childhood obesity.

The researchers from UCLA and the California Center for Public Health Advocacy (CCPHA) describe the results in their press release as a “patchwork of progress.” And Harold Goldstein, executive director of the CCPHA, observes, “Increased awareness and a growing array of school and community policies and programs are beginning to have an impact.”

As with data on so many other topics, however, the story is still incomplete – and that may be one of the key points to remember here. In five or 10 years, we’ll know more about whether this period from 2005 to 2010 marked the beginning of a decline in California’s childhood obesity rates or whether progress is stalling.

Researchers involved in this study note that a patchwork of progress is no reason for California policymakers to become complacent, pointing out the need for continued attention to programs and policies that prevent and address childhood obesity. “Children’s health is still at risk in a significant number of counties,” says UCLA’s Dr. Susan Babey, the lead author of the study. CCPHA’s Goldstein notes, “In light of the huge number of counties where childhood obesity rates continue to climb, our efforts must continue and even expand, especially in those areas where we now know children are most at risk.”

For more information on policies to influence childhood obesity, see kidsdata.org’s Policy Implications section.

Posted by Andy Krackov

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