National Childhood Obesity Awareness Month

National Childhood Obesity Awareness Month is a time when millions across America share information on how to address and prevent childhood obesity. Today, a significant number of children in the United States are affected by excess weight, which negatively impacts their quality of life, health, peer relationships, and future well-being. Recognizing and tackling this issue early is crucial. September also gives parents an opportunity to learn effective prevention strategies and how to support their child’s health.

History

Childhood obesity is one of the most serious public health challenges of modern society. Being overweight as a child can lead to long-term health problems such as diabetes, high blood pressure, stroke, and joint diseases. The mission of National Childhood Obesity Awareness Month is to inform the nation about the risks of obesity and encourage action to combat this growing issue.

The focus on childhood obesity became more pronounced in the 1960s, though smoking was a more active topic of concern at that time. It was only toward the end of the 20th century that childhood obesity began to receive increased attention, especially after the first diagnosis of type 2 diabetes in a child—a disease once thought to affect only adults.

Useful Facts

• One in six children in America has excess weight, representing nearly 13 million people aged two to nineteen years.
• If not addressed, childhood obesity often persists into adulthood, bringing serious health consequences.
• Weight is influenced by ethnicity. For example, nearly 50% of non-Hispanic Black children and slightly more than 40% of Hispanic children are overweight, while only 12% of non-Hispanic Asian children are considered obese.
• Childhood obesity is also linked to an increased risk of depression.

How to Join National Childhood Obesity Awareness Month

Learn more about the causes, consequences, and dangers of childhood obesity. Understanding prevention and how to assist if a child is affected is essential. Organize educational events for friends and your school community. Highlight the importance of physical activity and healthy eating. Consider donating to organizations dedicated to research and developing solutions for childhood obesity.

When is National Childhood Obesity Awareness Month in 2025?

National Childhood Obesity Awareness Month is observed on September 1 each year.

Observations