Childhood Obesity in Delaware

NHPS is launching the Campaign to Make Delaware's Kids the Healthiest in the Nation in an effort to lower the rates of childhood obesity, which is a national epidemic.

Consider these facts:

• The health consequences of obesity are profound. Obesity can lead to diabetes, high blood pressure, abnormal cholesterol, asthma, sleep apnea, some cancers, anxiety, and depression.
• Emerging evidence shows a link between student health and fitness --which is closely tied to nutrition and physical activity--and academic achievement.
• As a result of the health risks associated with childhood obesity, the CDC predicts that our current generation of children may be the first ever to have a shorter lifespan than their parents.

How Childhood Obesity Is Affecting Delaware

Childhood overweight and obesity affects about 40% of Delaware children and youth. This epidemic has a significant impact on the state's economy, including medical expenditures.

According to a recent poll of more than 800 Delaware parents, most consider poor nutrition, a lack of exercise, and the number of overweight children to be serious problems, on a par with cigarette smoking, accidents, and drug and alcohol abuse.

For More Information

For more information, read these fact sheets:

• The Link Between Children's Health, Academic Performance, and School District Economics
• Childhood Overweight and Obesity in Delaware: How We Can Help Delaware's Kids Grow Up Healthier

Get Involved

Get unvolved by helping the children in your life have the opportunity and ability to live the 5-2-1-Almost None lifestyle.

Join “The Campaign to Make Delaware’s Kids the Healthiest in the Nation” by completing our pledge.

Sign the Pledge and get involved in The Campaign!