Childhood Obesity
Learn the Facts About Childhood Obesity
Obesity in children and youth is a serious issue with health and social consequences that often continue into adulthood. Obesity may lead to:
- Heart disease
- Type 2 diabetes
- Asthma
- Sleep apnea
- Social discrimination
Implementing effective, evidence-based prevention programs, and supporting changes in communities and schools that make healthier choices possible through efforts like the Statewide Health Improvement Partnership are important to controlling the obesity epidemic.
How Does Minnesota's Rate Compare with the Nation?
- 15.8% obesity rate for U.S. youth (ages 10-17)1
- 10.4% obesity rate for Minnesota youth (ages 10-17)1
Information for Parents
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has developed resources that parents can use to help children maintain a healthy weight. Go to the CDC's Tips for Parents: Ideas to Help Children Maintain a Healthy Weight.
Learn More
1Trust for America’s Health and Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. (2018). Study of Children Ages 10 to 17 (2016-17). Retrieved from The State of Obesity website: https://stateofobesity.org/children1017.
