Advocacy Update: Reducing Obesity through Recreation: Park and Recreation Agencies Need Increased Federal Funding to Support Efforts to Reduce Health Problems

Vinluan, Monica Hobbs, Parks & Recreation

NRPA has a long history of working with federal policymakers to devise strategies to prevent obesity and its resulting health consequences, and to help reverse the trend toward inactivity in the U.S. We have advocated for federal programs, developed alternative approaches to combating obesity, and have helped to identify contributing environmental and social factors that could lead to obesity. As the federal government continues to develop new programs to combat obesity, NRPA will continue to seek partnerships and alliances to further the government's efforts. NRPA supports federal anti-obesity programs that positively impact the environment and have the potential to improve the daily lives of Americans.

While America is confronted with an obesity crisis that threatens our nation's health, economy and future, it is important that physical activity is seen as a viable strategy for disease prevention and health promotion for all people. Nearly 119 million adults, representing 65 percent of the population, are currently overweight or obese. About 15 percent of children are overweight, a condition that increases the risk of high cholesterol, high blood pressure and diabetes. Estimates for the direct and indirect costs …

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Publication information: Article title: Advocacy Update: Reducing Obesity through Recreation: Park and Recreation Agencies Need Increased Federal Funding to Support Efforts to Reduce Health Problems. Contributors: Vinluan, Monica Hobbs - Author. Magazine title: Parks & Recreation. Volume: 40. Issue: 10 Publication date: October 2005. Page number: 16+. © 2009 National Recreation and Park Association. COPYRIGHT 2005 Gale Group.

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