Diabetes Outreach Network
Abstract
Oral and Poster Presentations by MDON staff

Author: J. K. Walters

Obesity in children is at an epidemic level in America. Research indicates that overweight adolescents have a 70 to 80 percent chance of becoming obese adults. The Surgeon General has reported that unhealthy dietary habits and sedentary behavior together account for more than 300,000 deaths and $100 billion in healthcare costs. annually. Once regarded as an adult disease, type 2 diabetes in children is increasing at an alarming rate. An estimated twenty percent of new diabetes cases in children are type 2. Michigan Action For Healthy Kids (MAFHK) was formed as part of the nationwide initiative, Action for Healthy Kids (AFHK), which is dedicated to improving children's nutrition and physical activity in schools. MAFHK-the largest AFHK state coalition-brings together nearly 300 people representing more than 200 Michigan public and private organizations. The goals of MAFHK are to 1) ensure that healthy snacks and foods are provided in vending machines, school stores and other venues within the school's control, and 2) provide all children, from pre-kindergarten through grade 12 with quality daily physical education that helps develop the knowledge, attitudes, skills, behaviors and confidence needed to be physically active for life. MAFHK has accomplished a number of achievements including nutrition and physical activity policies for the Michigan State Board of Education; the production of a PSA geared to adolescents; and the planning of a pilot "Healthy School" project for 2004. In the long term, MAFHK aims to play a key role in reducing the statewide incidence of childhood overweight.

Contact: J. K. Walkers (616)735-1118