Obesity
Age 13-18 (Adolescence)
Note
*: Statistically unstable
HHSA Regions: Health and Human Services Agency regions
Data not available:
Race-Ethnicity, for American Indian or Alaska Native, and Native Hawaiian or other Pacific Islander; for Black in 2013-2014, from 2017 through 2020; for Asian from 2013 through 2020; for multi-race in 2017-2018
Race-Ethnicity categories:
Latino, While (non-latino), Black or African American (non-latino), Aian (non-latino), Multi-Race: Two or More Races (non-latino)
Source:
California Health Interview Survey (Download date: 4/24/2024)
Indicator criteria: Children Ages 12-17 – Overweight (85th up to 95th percentile) and Obese (highest 5th percentile) Body Mass Index
What is the indicator?
This indicator – the percentage of adolescents ages 12-17 who are overweight or obese – measures those adolescents at higher risk for health conditions related to their weight and body mass index (BMI). These data are routinely reported in the California Health Interview Survey (CHIS).
Why is this important?
Healthy weight is important for child and adolescent overall health and well-being throughout life. Nationally, about 17% of US children and adolescents are presented with obesity. An estimated 80% of children and adolescents who are overweight at ages 10-15 will become obese by the age of 25. The causes of excess weight gain in children are both genetic and behavioral. Obesity during childhood can have immediate and long-term health risks including: Type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, breathing problems (e.g. asthma, sleep apnea), cancer, and heart disease. In addition to physical health risks, being overweight or obese during childhood and adolescents is also linked to increased anxiety, depression, lower self-esteem, and overall quality of life.
What strategies can make a difference?
These evidence-based strategies are used across the country to address weight and obesity:
- Increase access to nutritional education in both school and community environments, include guidance on shopping and cooking.
- Promote enhanced physical activity among children and adults, encompassing activities both at home, within educational institutions, and within community settings.
- Provide reduced portion size options in schools and other public settings where meals are provided.
- Reduce access to sugary and high-calorie foods and beverages such as soft drinks and candy, including mandates for healthy options in public vending machines.
- Implement fitness, weight, and health evaluations within school systems, commencing from kindergarten, and integrate interventions and referrals as necessary within school and community programs.