NJ Spotlight published the following article on 5/9/2014. To read the full article, click here.
Experts: Reducing Childhood Obesity Requires Comprehensive Approach
Andrew Kitchenman | May 9, 2014There’s more to reducing childhood obesity in New Jersey than better diets and more exercise. Business practices, how children learn about health and even local zoning laws can all have an impact on the problem, according to leading health experts.
That’s why health advocates are aiming to build coalitions that include parents, community and business leaders, local planners and children themselves to reverse an obesity epidemic that is leading to chronic health problems like diabetes.
Nationally, the childhood obesity rate rose steadily from roughly 1980 to 2005, before leveling off. In New Jersey, the rate of 11 percent of children who are obese has held steady since 2005.
Over time, factors ranging from the low price of junk food to insufficient access to parks and recreation facilities have contributed to the problem, experts say.
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