Author Description

Childhood obesity in the U.S. has doubled in the last 10 years. This report describes the underlying factors that contribute to weight problems among children & adolescents, & examines the effects that being overweight & obese have on their health, & on healthcare costs. Features the findings from focus groups in California where researchers asked children & their parents in ethnically & geographically diverse communities what problems & barriers prevent children from living a healthy lifestyle. Identifies policy options that suggest actions that the Legislature might consider, & that schools, communities, & families might take to enhance health lifestyles for their children. Bibliography.