Status: Little or no detectable change
Most Recent Data:
19.7
percent
(2017-20)
Target:
15.5
percent
Desired Direction:
Decrease desired
Baseline:
17.8
percent of children and adolescents aged 2 to 19 years had obesity in 2013-16
Reduce the proportion of children and adolescents with obesity
Summary
Many children and adolescents in the United States have obesity. Obesity is linked to a higher risk for diseases and conditions like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, asthma, anxiety, and depression. In addition, children with obesity are more likely to be bullied and to have obesity as adults. Evidence suggests that intensive behavioral programs that use more than 1 strategy are an effective way to reduce childhood obesity. Policy and school curriculum changes that make it easier for children and adolescents to eat healthy and get physical activity can also help reduce obesity.
Topics: Overweight and Obesity, Adolescents , Children, Physical Activity
Workgroup: Nutrition and Weight Status Workgroup
