Understanding the Problem

According to government surveys, 15.3 percent of children ages 6–11 in the United States are overweight or obese. The arteries of overweight children act like those of middle-aged smokers, increasing the risk of an early heart attack or stroke. The damage can be reversed through eating a healthy diet and getting regular physical activity, but almost half of young people get no regular physical activity. Adopting a healthy lifestyle in childhood is the most cost-effective and practical way to prevent heart disease as adults. (Source: Circulation: Journal of the American Heart Association.)

Statistical Sourcebook
The American Heart Association, in partnership with the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, released A Nation at Risk: Obesity in the United States, a statistical sourcebook of facts about obesity. It’s a great resource for media, policymakers, health professionals, school officials and other stakeholders to use to begin meaningful dialogue toward concrete solutions to the obesity epidemic. It’s available in PDF format for you to download. more

Overweight in Children
Overweight children are more likely to be overweight adults. Successfully preventing or treating overweight in childhood may help reduce the risk of heart disease and other complications. more

Physical Activity and Children
Physical inactivity is a major risk factor for developing heart disease, stroke, high blood pressure, high cholesterol and diabetes. more

Dietary Guidelines for Healthy Children
The American Heart Association has specific healthy dietary guideline recommendations for all adults and children over the age of 2 years. more