Childhood Obesity Rates Increase in California, Study Finds
The number of overweight California children since 2001 has increased by 6% to 28%, according to a study by the California Center for Public Health Advocacy, the Los Angeles Times reports.
The results are based on public school fitness test scores for fifth-, seventh- and ninth-graders and is the first to look at the percentage of overweight children in specific communities. Researchers determined whether children were overweight by measuring their body mass index.
The survey found childhood obesity rates of:
- 42% in Wasco;
- 41% in Wilmington;
- 40% in Delano;
- 36% in Los Angeles;
- 35% in Santa Ana;
- 32% in Anaheim;
- 26% in San Diego;
- 24% in San Francisco;
- 9% in El Dorado Hills; and
- 8% in Manhattan Beach.
In addition, the study found that more than one-third of schoolchildren are overweight in Pacoima, El Monte, Huntington Park and North Hollywood.
The report indicates that increased childhood obesity could lead to higher rates of chronic diseases (Rivera, Los Angeles Times, 9/9).
The study is available online. Note: You need Adobe Acrobat Reader to view the report. This is part of the California Healthline Daily Edition, a summary of health policy coverage from major news organizations. Sign up for an email subscription.