Childhood Obesity Awareness Month

National Childhood Obesity Awareness Month, observed throughout September, is dedicated to promoting mindfulness, prevention, and healthy lifestyles for children.

According to the most recent CDC data, roughly 21% of children and adolescents in this country have obesity, equating to an estimated 15.5 million youths with the highest percentages represented by Hispanic children (26.2%) and Black children (24.8%). Childhood obesity significantly increases the risk of developing multiple serious diseases which can begin in childhood and continue into adulthood. Type 2 diabetes, hypertension, high cholesterol, heart disease, sleep apnea, asthma, certain cancers, and depression and anxiety have all been linked to excess weight.

Childhood obesity is not simply a matter of diet and exercise – it is deeply influenced by access to nutritious food, safe recreation spaces, and consistent medical care. Structural inequities such as food deserts, poverty, and limited access to health care create households where healthy choices are difficult or non-existent, making obesity far more likely.

Whittier Street Health Center is dedicated to combatting childhood obesity through a coordinated set of clinical, nutritional, behavioral, and community-based programs.

Pediatric Healthy Weight Clinic: A primary care obesity prevention and management program staffed by a pediatric provider, nutritionist, and case manager. Children and families are instructed in healthy eating, culturally responsive dietary substitutions, and ways to incorporate physical activity into daily life. Also provided are medical evaluations for obesity-related conditions and case management for social support.

Race Around Roxbury: Whittier’s flagship after school nutrition and exercise program for children ages 6-18 with BMI in the 85th percentile and higher. It includes fitness activities, nutrition workshops, cooking classes and a summer camp expansion program – all designed to educate young patients on the basics of lifelong healthy eating and behaviors.

Food Pantry and Community Garden: Both initiatives expand access to fresh, nutritious foods for families facing food insecurity or limited grocery options. These resources help families practice the healthy eating strategies introduced in the Pediatric Healthy Weight Clinic and Race Around Roxbury.

Through these integrated services, Whittier empowers children and families with clinical support, nutrition education, fresh food access, and year-round opportunities for physical activity needed to prevent obesity and support life-long health.

For more information, please call 617-989-3194 or 617-989-3179