National Childhood Obesity Awareness Month

History of National Childhood Obesity Awareness Month

For good reason, childhood obesity has been dubbed “one of the most serious public health challenges of the twenty-first century.” Obesity puts a child at risk for a variety of medical issues later in life, including diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, cancer, and joint problems. The purpose of this holiday is to educate the nation on obesity and encourage people to join in efforts to help children overcome this disorder.

The Surgeon General’s office in the United States was established in 1870, but it wasn’t until the 1960s that childhood obesity became a priority. The Surgeon General issued a report in 1963 that linked smoking to lung cancer and heart disease. The report also identified obesity as a significant public health issue; however, it was overshadowed by smoking-related issues at the time.

It wasn’t until recently that there was a heightened awareness of childhood obesity. The first case of type-two diabetes in a child was reported in 1980. This was concerning because type-two diabetes was thought to be an adult-only illness. The Surgeon General issued a warning to Americans about the rise in childhood obesity in 2000. By 2006, over 25 research studies on childhood obesity had been conducted in an attempt to better understand and combat it.

National Childhood Obesity Awareness Month timeline

1870

The U.S. Surgeon General's Office

It is established to collect information about the causes of death and diseases in the U.S.

1960s

On the Radar

Childhood obesity is finally viewed as a serious issue.

1980

Type-Two Diabetes in a Child

The first case in a child occurs and it’s concerning because most people believe that this illness can only be contracted by adults.

2006

Research Takes Place

Over 25 research studies are conducted on childhood obesity to find ways to better understand and combat it.

National Childhood Obesity Awareness Month FAQs

When is National Childhood Obesity Awareness Month?

National Childhood Obesity Awareness Month runs throughout September 2026, dedicating the entire month to educating families on prevention and promoting healthy lifestyles.

How many children are affected by obesity in the U.S.?

According to the CDC, approximately 1 in 5 children and adolescents aged 2-19 years in the United States are affected by obesity in 2026. This highlights the ongoing public health challenge.

What is the goal of Childhood Obesity Awareness Month?

The primary goal for 2026 is to increase public understanding of the risks associated with childhood obesity and to provide actionable steps for families to adopt healthier eating and activity habits.

What are common strategies to prevent childhood obesity?

Key strategies for 2026 include promoting balanced nutrition with plenty of fruits and vegetables, encouraging at least 60 minutes of physical activity daily, and limiting screen time. Family involvement is crucial.

How to Observe National Childhood Obesity Awareness Month

Learn about childhood obesity

Observe Childhood Obesity Awareness Month by learning more about the disease and how to prevent it. Educate yourself, your family and friends, your school, and your community.

Organize a local event

Anyone can organize a local event to teach children the value of physical activity and healthy eating for their overall well-being. Many resources are available on the website to assist you in commemorating this month and educating children about obesity.

Donate to an organization

Donate to a charity that fights childhood obesity. There are great organizations out there doing wonderful things for our children. Consider donating to one of these wonderful organizations right now.

5 Important Facts About Childhood Obesity

One in six children are affected

More than 12.7 million American children have obesity — that’s almost 20% of all children aged two to 19.

Overweight children become overweight adults

Obese children are much more likely to become obese adults, as well as develop life-threatening diseases such as diabetes and high blood pressure.

Your ethnicity affects your likelihood of obesity

Obesity affects approximately 48% of non-Hispanic Blacks, 42% of Hispanics, 36% of non-Hispanic Whites, and 12% of non-Hispanic Asians.

Childhood obesity can lead to depression

Children who are overweight are much more likely to be bullied than their normal-weight peers.

Snacking adds an additional 200 daily calories

Kids snack a lot, especially when they're watching T.V. or playing video games, and one study found that children consume about 200 extra calories per day.

Why National Childhood Obesity Awareness Month is Important

It promotes healthy eating habits

The holiday promotes healthy eating habits and an active lifestyle. This will help kids reach a healthy weight for their age, height, and gender.

It encourage parents

It encourages parents to be role models for their children by eating healthy foods, being physically active, and limiting screen time. Plus, it gives parents the information they need to make informed decisions on raising healthy kids.

It educates parents

This month educates parents about the importance of fruit and vegetables. It also teaches them how to eliminate sugary drinks from their children’s diets.