DOH Leon Recognizes National Childhood Obesity Awareness Month 

September 23, 2022

Tallahassee, Fla. –  The Florida Department of Health in Leon County (DOH Leon) joins the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and other health and wellness partners in observing National Childhood Obesity Awareness Month to promote healthy growth and support childhood obesity prevention efforts.  Childhood obesity occurs when a child is well above the normal or healthy weight for his or her age and height.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), over the past three decades, childhood obesity rates have tripled and today one out of every five children in the United States is overweight or obese.  These children are at a higher risk for asthma, sleep apnea, bone and joint problems, high blood pressure type 2 diabetes, and heart disease.  Moreover, children with obesity are more likely to experience bullying, social isolation, depression, and lower self-esteem.

According to Florida Health Charts, in 2021, over 32% of Florida public middle and high school students reported being overweight or obese. Behaviors that influence excess weight gain include eating high-calorie, low-nutrient foods and beverages, medication use, sleep routines, and lack of physical activity.

“Obesity affects a child’s overall health even well into their adulthood,” said Brandi Knight, MPH, DOH Leon Health Administrator.  “Starting early isn't an option, it’s essential. Fortunately, there are several simple things that anyone can do, but it will require changing some of our habits.”

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has developed resources and tools for parents and caregivers to help their children stay a healthy weight. They're encouraged to make getting healthy a family affair by working together to incorporate healthy eating habits and more physical activity into their daily routines.

For more information, please visit Healthiest Weight Florida.

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