Child Obesity Rates Drop 43 Percent

A recent study shows that the obesity rates for U.S. children in the United States has drastically dropped among those between the ages of two and five. 

In 2003, obesity prevalence for each age group was approximately 14 percent. In 2012, this number had dropped to just above eight percent, which represents a drop of about 43 percent, according to the U.S. Deparment of Health and Human Services. 

"We continue to see signs that, for some children in this country, the scales are tipping. This report comes on the heels of previous CDC data that found a significant decline in obesity prevalence among low-income children aged 2 to 4 years participating in federal nutrition programs," CDC Director Tom Frieden, M.D., M.P.H. said, via a press release.  "We've also seen signs from communities around the country with obesity prevention programs including Anchorage, Alaska, Philadelphia, New York City and King County, Washington. This confirms that at least for kids, we can turn the tide and begin to reverse the obesity epidemic."

Researchers note that though the exact cause of the drop is unknown, many factors may have lead to these study results. For instance, child care centers have actively been making an effort to improve the healthfulness of their meal plans as well as the amount of physical activity that students are encouraged to participate in. Recent CDC data also showed that the rate of soda consumption among youths dropped in recent years. 

"I am thrilled at the progress we've made over the last few years in obesity rates among our youngest Americans," Michelle Obama, First Lady of the United States of America, said, according to the news release. "With the participation of kids, parents, and communities in Let's Move! these last four years,  healthier habits are beginning to become the new norm."

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