The growing problem of childhood obesity is a grave public health issue. Due to the high prevalence of obesity, its negative consequences on metabolic health, social and racial inequalities, exaggerated costs and excessive financial spending, this problem is having a major impact on America. Between 2003-2004, and 2009-2010, the prevalence of childhood obesity slowed down. (Salahuddin et al., 2017). However, extreme obesity rates increased during the same period. According to the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, between 1999 and 2000, 3.8% were obese in children aged 2 and 19. (Salahuddin and colleagues, 2017). The frequency of obesity increased from 2011 to 2012. It was 5.9% in 2012 and 2015. Obesity can have financial and physical consequences. Therefore, it is important to be aware of the associated risk factors. The cause of severe obesity is linked to the environment, social, and family risk factors. Obesity, a serious public health problem that arises in fetal development, is an issue of concern for the entire family. This is why it’s important to look into the behavioral problems of children, parents, and infants. There are many factors that can lead to obesity, such as insufficient sleep and unhealthy eating habits.
This action plan addresses the obesity problem in Texas. TxOHC (n.d.), places Texas at eighth place in obesity rates. In Texas, the obesity rate increased substantially between 2013-2017 (by 2.9%). Vittrup & McClure (2018) report that obesity has increased by a significant amount in children between 6 and 11 years old, while it has increased threefold for adolescents 12 through 19. Obesity can be defined as a poor lifestyle choice, such as poor diet and lack of physical activity. The death rate for those over 60 has risen due to obesity-related issues. We have to act because of its effects.