FAO.org

Childhood obesity is one of the most urgent health issues in the United States. Nearly one in three American children are overweight or obese, putting them at risk for many immediate and long-term health problems -- including high cholesterol, high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. The government is taking action to ensure American children have every chance to fulfill their potential by providing them with the opportunities to make healthy choices. Programs and policies such as the Let’s Move campaign, to encourage physical activity, and the Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act, to provide more nutritious school meals, are some of the initiatives aimed at improving childhood health and nutrition. By declaring September 2014 National Childhood Obesity Awareness Month, President Obama and the US government will continue to raise awareness of the benefits of healthy eating and active living so children can lead prosperous and productive lives. “I encourage all Americans to learn about and engage in activities that promote healthy eating and greater physical activity by all our Nation's children,” said the President.