Childhood obesity is one of the biggest threats to our nation’s health, economy and future.
Children who have obesity are at greater risk for diseases such as type 2 diabetes and heart disease, which have a significant impact on health and health care costs. Obesity can also increase the risk for severe symptoms of COVID-19, even among children. Additionally, decades of data show that children of color and those growing up furthest from economic opportunity are at greatest risk for obesity.
Across America, leaders at all levels are making changes to community environments to make it easier for children and families to access affordable, healthy foods and places to be active. The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation is working to help advance these types of changes, so we can ensure all children are able to grow up at a healthy weight, and have a healthy start in life.
A State of Childhood Obesity report summarizes the latest data and features expert insights, research, and policy developments, including emergency relief efforts to support major federal nutrition programs.
The report provides a set of policy recommendations for prioritizing children’s health and improving equity in response to the pandemic.