Better health for children through better streets

Keep kids moving

Jon Boyd, Jul 16, 10.

“The shape and structure of streets, sidewalks and the ability to safely use them has an enormous impact on whether children become overweight or obese. Kids get more physical activity and lead healthier lives when they can bike and walk to school, play in local parks and reach recreational opportunities with ease,” writes Sean Berry of Transportation for America. He continues, “Among American children between the ages of 10 and 17, 32 percent are overweight or obese, and many are at risk for more serious conditions like type 2 diabetes, heart disease and stroke. Obesity rates are disproportionately high among low-income and minority children.”

Transportation for America sponsored, “Keeping Kids Moving: How Equitable Transportation Policy Can Prevent Childhood Obesity,” a national roundtable at the National Press Club in Washington on July 15th. Robert Wood Johnson Foundation Center to Prevent Childhood Obesity, The Convergence Partnership, and PolicyLink co-sponsored the event.

Archived video is available at the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation Center for Childhood Obesity website.

(Photo credit: taberandrew)