Analyzing and publicizing gains in childhood obesity prevention to build momentum for policies promoting healthy eating and active living

This project will evaluate the links between enactment of state and local policies on nutrition and physical activity and changes in childhood obesity rates in California. Preliminary analysis of objectively measured data on body mass index (BMI) suggests that childhood obesity rates peaked statewide in 2005, just as California enacted legislation banning the sale of soda and junk food on school campuses, and have measurably declined since that time. This study will: (1) analyze changes in childhood obesity rates from 2004 through 2009 in California cities and counties, and (2) assess the links between implementation of state and local policies in 100 California cities and changes in childhood obesity rates in those municipalities. The investigators will evaluate a broad range of policies on childhood obesity prevention at the state and community levels and in school districts. Additional analyses will seek to determine which policies or combination of policies appear to be having the greatest impact on childhood obesity rates. Deliverables will include a policy brief, policy report, and fact sheets describing research findings for dissemination in California and nationally. The grantee will recruit a national panel of experts to review project methods, findings and their implications. The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation's Communications staff will vet all project communications activities and products, and the grantee will not use Foundation funds for lobbying purposes.

Grant Details

Amount Awarded $398,417.00

Awarded on: 12/7/2010

Time frame: 1/1/2011 - 8/31/2012

Grant Number: 68203