Childhood Obesity Indicators

Overweight and obese children are more likely to be overweight and obese adults. Both overweight and obesity are major risk factors for chronic diseases such as cardiovascular, diabetes, and hypertension.

National data shows that the percent of overweight children has increased dramatically since 1974. That year, 4 percent of 6-11 year olds were overweight. In 2004, nearly 20 percent of children the same ages were overweight. The percent of overweight children has quadrupled since 1974.

Local indicators of overweight and obesity include physical fitness and nutrition. In 1984, 40 percent of Duval County students in grades 3-12 met the minimum standards of basic physical fitness according to the President's Challenge Physical Fitness Test. Nineteen years later, in 2003, a little more than 20 percent of children the same age met minimum standards.

A survey of Florida youth shows that the percent of youth eating fruits and vegetables has decreased. In 1999, 26.3 youth responded that they ate five or more servings of fruits and vegetables. Six years later, 21.9 percent responded similarly.

Percent of Youth Eating 5+ Servings of Fruits and Vegetables Daily, Florida

 Source: Florida Youth Risk Behavior Survey

 Jacksonville's Childhood Obesity Prevention Policy Development Workgroup found another barrier to healthy food. Some urban areas lack healthy food retailers and residents lack a vehicle. Residents in these areas rely on quick marts and small retailers for food. An example is East Jacksonville which is located in ZIP code 32206. According to this map, few grocery stores or restaurants are located in East Jacksonville. According to the U.S. Census 2000, 40 percent of all occupied housing units in 32206 did not have a vehicle.