Trends in Obesity Prevalence Among Children and Adolescents in the United States, 1988-1994 Through 2013-2014 Published in JAMA, June 7, 2016

In simplest terms, here is what we learned from the latest report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) on children and adolescent obesity: there has been modest progress with the youngest age group, flattening levels of obesity with kids and a slight increase in obesity rates among adolescents. 

The progress we are making on childhood obesity in the United States is real.  The problem? It is absolutely insufficient. The disparities we continue to see in obesity rates are staggering. We must be dedicated to ensuring a child’s race, ethnicity, or family income level does not influence his or her opportunity to live a long and healthy life. All young people deserve an equal chance to live healthier lives.

Our organization has been a leader in helping schools, communities and businesses to make real, meaningful change in the way kids eat and move.  Our nationwide effort impacts more than 25 million young people. But so much more needs to be done. 

It’s time for America to step up. Change is hard, but our kids deserve better. It’s going to take all of us—families, communities, schools, business and government— to make change happen.  Let’s work together to build a healthier generation.

Howell Wechsler, EdD, MPH 
Chief Executive Officer 
Alliance for a Healthier Generation