Policy Pick: From Fat to Fit, The President's Budget

The initiative comes at a time when obesity-related chronic illnesses such as Type II diabetes, asthma and high blood pressure once predominantly seen in adults, have become increasingly prevalent in young children. Nationally, childhood obesity rates have more than tripled since 1980. In Los Angeles County alone, 35 percent of 3- and 4-year olds were found to be overweight or at risk of becoming overweight, according to a 2005 WIC survey sponsored by First 5 LA. 

By declaring a national campaign on childhood obesity, first lady Obama not only hopes to promote a healthier, more physically-fit nation, she also hopes that the campaign will assist in the prevention of other diseases not regularly associated with obesity and overweight. For example, research shows that obesity and physical inactivity may account for up to 25 to 30 percent of several major cancers, including those of the colon, breast (postmenopausal), endometrium, kidney, and esophagus.

The first lady's initiative is a fine complement to President Obama's focus on childhood obesity in his proposed budget for Fiscal Year 2011. Several recommended investments by the president designed to reduce the high obesity rate of young children include:

• $50 million for a new USDA Healthy Food Financing Initiative to bring healthy food options to low-income communities;
• Additional funding to expand access to credit for small businesses to provide healthy food at the local level; and
• $351 million increase for WIC, the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children.

As the White House moves forward with its efforts to support the health and growth of young children, First 5 LA will continue to monitor progress on public policies that encourage healthy weight. First 5 LA actively supports policy efforts to encourage and promote breast-feeding, increase physical activity for young children, and increase families' access to affordable healthy foods.

For more information, please contact Palanda Brownlow, policy analyst, at PBrownlow@First5LA.org.

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