The number of people in the United States who are either overweight or obese has increased steadily over the past 30 years. More than 60% of adults are either overweight or obese, as are at least 13% of children.

Being overweight in childhood has been linked to several health problems that can last into adulthood. These include poor heart health (e.g. hypertension and high cholesterol), Type 2 diabetes, and impaired mental health (depression, low self-esteem). Poor self-image from being judged as obese can follow youth into adulthood, resulting in fewer years of completed education, lower family income, and higher rates of poverty, regardless of their initial economic background.

Our 2005-2007 Community Benefit Plan Obesity Initiative was based on collaboration with several local hospitals through the Hospital Council of Northern and Central California, with a goal to reduce the rate of obesity in Alameda County’s children aged 5-19.

2005-2007 Goal

• To reduce the rate of obesity among Alameda County children, age 5‐19, through continued work with collaborative partners, Hospital Council and other ABSMC Youth Initiatives.

2005-2007 Cumulative Outcomes

1. Since 2006, Youth Bridge and its Pipeline Program Partners, have provided health education, information and several presentations to more than 1050 elementary and middle school students at 8 Alameda County Schools. Emphasis was placed on healthy eating, nutrition and physical fitness.
   
2. Youth Bridge enhanced its outreach to the entire families of each of the students. 110 families received education on healthy eating and physical fitness on a regular basis. In addition, BMI, blood pressure and bone density screenings were given to family members on a regular basis by Alta Bates Summit partner physicians, through the Family Association meetings.
   
3. Since 2005, more than 550 Pipeline high school and college students were taught about healthy eating, nutrition and physical activity.