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Is Your Child At Risk



February 9, 2010

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(New York, N.Y.)-Did you know that over one million young people in New York are considered obese? Even more children are at risk of becoming obese as adults due to poor eating and exercise habits.

Senator Kemp Hannon is reminding all parents to monitor eating and exercise habits of their children.  “Studies show that healthy eating habits and routine exercise improve both mental and physical health,” said Senator Kemp Hannon. “While it may be more attractive during these cold winter months to stay inside and watch TV, parents should encourage indoor exercise activities.  It seems obvious and yet, the number of obese children who suffer from the accompanying health risks and complications continues to grow,” said Hannon.

According to a report by the New York State Comptroller’s office, even children as young as six months of age are affected by obesity. The most recent statics are frightening.  For children ages 2 to 5 and youth ages 12 to 19, the obesity rate has nearly tripled during the last 30 years. For children ages 6 to 11, the rate has quadrupled.

A  report by the New York State Department of Health suggests that one in four New Yorkers under the age of 18 suffers from obesity.  As a result, the State has taken several measures in the hope of reducing obesity among children. These initiatives include improving healthy food choices and health education in public schools. 

Through New York State and Healthy Eating and Physical Activity Alliance (NYSHEPA), many after-school care providers received toolkits and checklists addressing proper nutrition, physical activity and health education for children. 

Not certain if your child is an appropriate weight for his or her age and height? Visit www.cdc.gov/obesity/index.html and use the Body Mass Index (BMI) calculating tool.  You will also find answers regarding frequently asked questions about obesity and helpful resources that are available to you.

Senator Hannon encourages parents to consult a physician regarding a healthy weight for their child in order to avoid health risks and health complications that are associated with obesity. 

For more information about New York State and to sign-up for e-mail updates, visit Senator Hannon’s website at www.kemphannon.com.



 

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