The rate of childhood obesity in the US has been rising steadily over the past 30 years. This is a major area of concern in the public health community because the habits we form as children impact our health throughout our adult lives, for better or for worse.

CLICK HERE (Links to an external site.) to read a fact sheet from the CDC about childhood obesity, including health effects and prevention.

(http://www.cdc.gov/healthyschools/obesity/facts.htm)

First Lady Michelle Obama launched the Let's Move! initiative, a program designed to tackle the problem of childhood obesity by focusing on the following "five pillars":

1. Creating a healthy start for children

2. Empowering parents and caregivers

3. Providing healthy food in schools

4. Improving access to healthy, affordable foods

5. Increasing physical activity

For your discussion assignment, CLICK HERE (Links to an external site.) to read up a bit on the various programs being implemented across the country as a part of Let's Move!

(http://www.letsmove.gov/initiatives)

Then return here to answer the following questions in your discussion post:

1. Which program do you think might have the biggest long-term impact on childhood obesity? Explain your choice.

2. Is there anything missing? Anything you think would be a valuable program to add or something that doesn't seem to be considered?