Michelle Obama’s Fight to Reduce Childhood Obesity

First Lady Michelle Obama is adamant about getting childhood obesity under control. Obesity has become an issue all across America and children are not exempt from this dangerous condition. In the past 30 years, the rate of obese children has more than tripled. 7.3 percent of boys and 5.5 percent of girls are considered extremely obese.

These alarming numbers are sparking parents, doctors and the government to step-up and do something about this rapidly increasing rate of overweight children. There are a number of things to blame for this epidemic but lack of activity is at the heart of the problem. Other factors include the ever increasing amount of video games in every home, the booming junk food and fast food industries, and the lack of safe areas for children can play in outside.

One of the most common illnesses overweight children are at risk of developing is diabetes. They are prone to breathing problems and are at risk of developing heart disease at an early age. It is estimated that 115 billion dollars is spent every year on medical issues related to a person being overweight. This number will only increase as these overweight youths grow up.

Mrs. Obama was appointed head of the obesity task force by her husband, President Barack Obama. She kicked off the Let’s Move campaign in February of this year and continues to speak out about the dangers overweight children face. Her task force just released a list of 70 recommendations that parents, doctors and government agencies are being urged to follow.