On June 18, 2013, the American Medical Association voted to classify obesity as a disease.1 With more than 35% of U.S. adults and 17% of children and adolescents aged 2—19 years considered obese, this decision will help elevate the importance of prevention interventions.2,3 Furthermore, the formal classification of obesity as a disease could increase funding for obesity research, improve physician and patient communication, and promote nutrition education in medical school.4 Recognizing obesity as a disease is an important step in addressing this complex health issue.
Education and training opportunities are essential in developing obesity interventions. TRAIN, the nation’s premier learning management network for public health professionals and volunteers, offers local, state, and national trainings that can be used in developing obesity prevention and education initiatives. Trainings available that address obesity include:
The Public Health Foundation (PHF) offers resources through the
PHF Online Store that can assist public health professionals in educating their constituents about obesity prevention. Titles include:
After decades of rising rates, obesity among low-income preschoolers declined slightly in 19 states and U.S. territories from 2008 through 2011, according to the latest
Vital Signs report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.