Below is a news release on a policy statement appearing in the May issue of Pediatrics, the peer-reviewed, scientific journal of the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP).

For Release: Immediate

Physicians and health care professionals can help prevent and curb childhood obesity by working with families and communities to improve nutrition and encourage physical activity, especially through in-school programs, according to a new American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) policy statement.

According to the 1999-2000 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, the prevalence of overweight or obese children in the U.S. has tripled since the 1960s to more than 15 percent.

The policy statement, “Active Healthy Living: Prevention of Childhood Obesity Through Increased Physical Activity,” recommends that physicians regularly assess a child’s weight, diet, and level of physical activity. Physicians should work with families to identify possible barriers to healthy living and suggest positive changes when necessary. Parents also should be encouraged to serve as role models of healthy living through their diet and exercise regimens, and encourage their children to participate in sports and other physical activities.

The policy recommends that physicians and health care professionals aggressively advocate for:

· School and community recreation programs that encourage physical activity.
· School curriculums that foster better nutrition.
· The creation of school wellness councils that include physician representation.
· The reinstatement of compulsory, quality, daily physical education programs.
· The protection of school recess time.
· The creation of safe recreational facilities, parks, playgrounds, bicycle paths, sidewalks and crosswalks.
· More funding for quality research in the prevention of childhood obesity.
· Social marketing that promotes physical activity.

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Related news: June 2006: AAP Offers Health Strategies for Parents in a Parents Guide to Childhood Obesity