Nationally, one in five children live with obesity, as reported by the American Academy of Pediatrics. This disease, which is defined as body mass index (BMI) at or above the 95th percentile for age and sex, impacts some groups more than others. Demographics that are most at-risk for obesity include adolescents, Hispanic and non-Hispanic Black children and children in low-income families who may not have consistent access to nutritious foods.
Of the children we serve at Healthcare Network ages 10 and up, nearly 1,500 have obesity. This is a significant problem, as childhood obesity can lead to increased health issues in adulthood, like obesity, joint problems and blood pressure issues.
With support from Naples Children and Education Foundation (NCEF), founders of the Naples Winter Wine Festival, Healthcare Network has launched Wellness Warriors, a proactive, comprehensive and culturally appropriate effort to reduce childhood obesity. As thelargest pediatric care provider in Collier County, Healthcare Network’s uniquely positioned to lead this work. The program combines nutritional, medical and behavioral health care, as well as family involvement alongside child-focused interventions to create lasting positive change…