New campaign gives providers tools to promote nutrition and healthy weight in children
Nearly 40 percent of New York City public school children in grades K-8 have overweight or obesity
February 6, 2019 – The Health Department today announced a pediatric obesity outreach campaign targeting pediatricians and family practitioners in neighborhoods disproportionately burdened by poor health. As part of the campaign, Health Department representatives will conduct one-on-one visits with more than 160 pediatric and family practitioner practices in East and Central Harlem, North and Central Brooklyn, and the South Bronx. Providers and staff will receive a Pediatric Obesity Action Kit containing tools for clinicians and for parents to address a family’s needs related to overweight and obesity.Nearly 40 percent of New York City public school children in grades K-8 have overweight or obesity. According to Health Department data, the rate of obesity among Black students is about 65 percent greater than among White students. Among Latino students, the rate is 97 percent greater than among White students. In addition, only 20 percent of parents report that their child eats five or more servings of fruits and vegetables per day.
“Giving providers and parents customized tools to become champions for healthy foods and more physical activity is an essential component of turning the tide on pediatric obesity,” said Health Commissioner Dr. Oxiris Barbot. “A lack of affordable and healthy food options, limited opportunities for safe physical activity outdoors, and the constant barrage of advertisements for junk foods and sugary drinks targeted at children can make it challenging for children and their families to maintain healthy diets and weights.”
“Addressing weight can be challenging because of stigma and the negative consequences, especially on children. There are many causes of obesity, and providers are in the perfect position to help support families overcome barriers to having a healthy weight,” said Deputy Commissioner Dr. Sonia Angell. “This outreach campaign brings community clinics and their patients the tools they need to make long lasting changes.”
“Visits with children at pediatric and family practice offices will help focus efforts on helping children develop better eating habits,” said Assistant Speaker Felix W Ortiz. “Health cannot be compromised. I cannot over emphasize the need for people to start healthy eating practices at an early age.”
“Instilling in our children healthy diet and exercise habits early on is crucial to giving them a fair shot at a healthy life,” said Council Member Ben Kallos. “As an elected official, I am glad to see the Department of Health spreading its plan for New York City’s children through outreach as part of the Obesity Action Kit. As a parent, I am hopeful this plan will help our City's children learn healthy habits such as not drinking soda, remaining physically active and having a plan to stay in shape.”
“Urban Health Plan is proud to have been aligned with the Public Health Detailing Program since its inception, as well as part of the 2009 pediatric obesity campaign,” said Dr. Acklema Mohammad, Chair of Pediatrics for Urban Health Plan. “The campaign brought great value to both our providers and patients because the materials and resources are extremely patient-friendly and easy to use, which help lead to successful, positive outcomes with our patients. We are looking forward to the launch of the new pediatric obesity campaign and the efforts to promote healthy habits to children and their families.”
The Action Kit encourages pediatricians and family practitioners to:
The Action Kit also offers parents ways to work with children and teens to make healthy choices:
Avoid sugary drinks.
Step away from the screen and move.
Make mealtime family time.
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MEDIA CONTACT: Stephanie Buhle: (347) 396-4177, PressOffice@health.nyc.gov