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Delaware lands in the middle of the pack for childhood obesity

Delaware Public Media

A recent national study by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation places Delaware 25th nationwide in overweight and obese children.

 

The data shows 30.9 percent of children ages 10-to-17 in the First State are overweight or obese.  That’s slightly below the national rate of 31.2 percent.

 

Nemours Children’s Health System conducts a similar study. Their most recent data on Delaware from 20-14 showed results comparable with the national survey.

 

Evaluation and Research Scientist Kristina Olson says Nemours uses the information from the survey to share with those who care about the health of Delaware’s children—both within their organization and with community partners.

 

 

“We also ask questions regarding health behaviors. So, how much physical activity are children engaging in? How much sugar sweetened beverages—juice, sodas—are they consuming? How many servings of fruit and vegetables are they getting?” said Olson.

 

The Nemours study also shows engagement in positive weight-related health behaviors decreases as children get older.

 

The latestState of Obesity report released by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation and Trust for America's Health put Delaware's adult obesity rate at 30.7 percent, 23rd highest in the nation.

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