Obesity is a growing epidemic in the United States. From 1988–2004, the overall prevalence of overweight preschool-age children ages 2–5 years almost doubled, increasing from about 7% to 14%. From 1960–2004, the percentage of obese adults ages 20 years and older more than doubled, increasing from 13% to 32%. Among adults, overweight and obesity are associated with increased mortality rates, as well as elevated risks of heart disease, diabetes, and some types of cancer. Obesity is of particular concern for our children, since overweight adolescents have a 70% chance of becoming overweight or obese adults.

To this end, safety net health systems play a critical role in stemming this epidemic. Continue Reading