There is plenty of evidence that people who do not get much physical activity are more inclined to be overweight and are at higher risk for cardiovascular disease. Now there's new information about the risks in children.

Over the past 2 decades, the number of overweight children and teens nearly doubled, leading many to talk about an epidemic of obesity in the U.S. The latest findings from the government's National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey show that more and more children and teens are overweight: 13% of children 6 to 11 and 14% of teens aged 12 to 19. These individuals are at risk for cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and other serious health problems.

Analysis of a subset of this data revealed that the prevalence of obesity is lowest among children who watch TV for 1 hour or less each day. Watching TV was positively associated with obesity among girls, even after controlling for age, race, family income, weekly physical activity, and energy intake.

We all have the opportunity to set a better example for our children by reducing the time spent watching TV and increasing physical activity. Everybody will benefit!

Related information Lifestyle Changes - Manage weight

Sources:

• Crespo CJ, Smit E, Troiano RP, et al. Television watching, energy intake, and Nutrition Examination Survey, 1988-1994. Archives of Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine, March 2001;155:360-365. (Abs.)
• CDC. More American children and teens are overweight. Press release, March 17, 2001.