A new report on childhood obesity may be a baby step, but it's a step in the right direction.
The federal health survey reported a 43 percent drop in the obesity rate for children ages 2-5 during the past decade.
"This is the first time we've seen any indication of any significant decrease in any group," said Cynthia Ogden, a researcher for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and the lead author of the report. "It was exciting."
Researchers are encouraged by the data because children in that age range who are overweight or obese are five times more likely to be included in those categories as adults.
Ogden cautioned, however, that children ages 2-5 are only a fraction of the U.S. population. Data for other age groups remained static or, in the case of women over age 60, increased. The survey reported obesity at 17 percent for youths and about 33 percent for adults.
Researchers failed to agree on what was driving the weight decline for children in that age group. Among the theories:
• Children are drinking fewer sodas or sugary beverages.
• Children are consuming fewer calories overall, with research showing a 7 percent decline for boys and 4 percent for girls.
• More mothers are breast-feeding, which promotes a healthier pattern of weight gain for children.
• Federally funded programs have changed and now provide healthier, more nutritious foods.
We would add greater awareness as a factor.
First lady Michelle Obama's "Let's Move" program is one of many initiatives encouraging children to become healthier by shedding pounds and increasing exercise and activity.
Proper diet and exercise are the path to a healthy weight - and children now are leading the way.