Legislative Update by Congressman Mike Ross

Fighting Childhood Obesity
 
December 12, 2003
 
There is a growing health epidemic in America -- one that carries enormous long-term health risks, but one that often slips under our radar screen.

The epidemic is childhood obesity, and this trend is growing at alarming rates. In 1980, only 5% of school age children were severely overweight. Today, nearly 15% of school age children are overweight.

And this rise in obesity is not necessarily due to an increase in junk food consumption. According to a recent survey conducted by the National Institute of Health, over the past 20 years the rate of overweight children has grown by 10%, but the rate of caloric consumption has increased by a mere 1 percent. The explanation for this gap? Our children are more lethargic than ever – 13% less than they were 20 years ago.

It's clear that by encouraging our youth to be more active, we can make progress against this growing epidemic. It is our responsibility as adults and parents to encourage our children to engage in more physical activity. And Arkansas is blessed with an abundance of outdoor opportunities. Whether its hunting, fishing, canoeing, or hiking, I encourage parents to take advantage of Arkansas’s vast opportunities outdoors with your children.

In fact, some of the best times I have spent with my son Alex have been hunting. Hunting  with my son has enabled me to teach him the important safety lessons required by all hunters, while at the same time showing him the benefits of physical activity, and how enjoyable it can be.

There is an organization in Arkansas that is working to reverse the growing trend in childhood obesity by encouraging parents and children to partake in outdoor activities.  It is called the Coalition for a Healthy and Active America, and you may find more information by going to its website at www.chaausa.org.

Take advantage of Arkansas’s vast woods and outdoors treasures, and spend some quality time with your children. Not only is this healthy for your entire family’s physical well-being, but participating in outdoor activities with your kids is a great way to spend quality time with your family.


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