Combating Childhood Obesity By Strengthening Physical Fitness Education Programs and Intiatives
Adopted at the 79th Annual Meeting in 2011
WHEREAS, over the last 20 years, the childhood obesity rate has more than doubled, and the adolescent obesity rate has tripled; and
WHEREAS, 31.8 percent or 23,000,000 children and teenagers ages 2 to 19 are obese or overweight, a statistic that health and medical experts consider an epidemic; and
WHEREAS, childhood obesity is preventable yet does not appear to be declining; and
WHEREAS, obese young people have an 80 percent chance of being obese adults and are more likely than children of normal weight to become overweight or obese adults; and
WHEREAS, obese young adults are more likely to develop cardiovascular disease, type II diabetes, asthma, sleep apnea, and various forms of cancer; and
WHEREAS, researchers suggest that the childhood obesity epidemic is largely due to a decline in regular physical activity and a diet high in unhealthy foods; and
WHEREAS, participating in physical activity is important for children and teens as it may have beneficial effects not only on body weight, but also on blood pressure and bone strength; and
WHEREAS, young people who get more exercise throughout the day are more fit, more focused in the classroom, and get better sleep; and
WHEREAS, Mayors across this nation have championed the cause of childhood obesity prevention by raising awareness and implementing local programs and policies to address the issue of childhood obesity; and
WHEREAS, public programs including Let's Move! and HealthierUS School Challenge, recognize the importance of creating healthier school environments through promotion of nutrition and physical activity; and
WHEREAS, legislation including the Fitness Integrated with Teaching Kids Act (HR 1057) sponsored by Representative Ron Kind and the Healthy Lifestyles and Prevention America Act (S 174) sponsored by Senator Tom Harkin, would provide cities and schools with resources to ensure kids are active during the school day and are given opportunities that promote overall health and wellness; and NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, US Conference of Mayors member Cities commit to participating in a nationwide effort to combat childhood obesity through their own efforts and funded programs and initiatives such as Let's Move! and HealthierUS School Challenge.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, US Conference of Mayors supports legislation that would combat childhood obesity by promoting healthy and active lifestyles, developing physical fitness and wellness initiatives, and authorizing funding opportunities to local governments for such purposes. Projected cost: Unknown