NEW SURVEY RESULTS: CALIFORNIA FIELD SURVEY ON PROBLEM OF CHILDHOOD OBESITY

March 31, 2004 -- Results of a survey released today have important implications for advocates for healthy eating and activity environments. According to the Field Research Corporation study, funded by The California Endowment, nearly all Californians believe the problem of childhood obesity is serious, and eight in ten think the problem has worsened. Results demonstrated strong support among Californians for a community approach to the problem, such as improvements in school health environments and fast food restaurant nutrition labeling, rather than leaving it solely to children and their families. A striking number of residents rated their neighborhood only fair to poor in providing opportunities for healthy eating and activity for children. Health care providers were seen as having a leading role in spreading the word about obesity risks.

Interviewed by the San Francisco Chronicle, Strategic Alliance Steering Committee member Arnell Hinkle (executive director of the California Adolescent Nutrition and Fitness Program) said, "We now have some ammunition to use when we go to the lawmakers and say, 'Look, we have wide support for some of this stuff.'"

Key findings from the poll include:

Nearly all residents (92%) consider the problem of obesity among children and teens to be serious, with 46% describing it as very serious and 46% saying it is somewhat serious.

Half of state residents (50%) rate their own neighborhood as being only fair, poor or very poor as a place offering healthy foods for its children. About four in ten use these generally negative terms when asked if their neighborhood is a place that offers opportunities for children to exercise and get physical activity.

By a 53% to 30% margin, Californians believe that reducing childhood obesity requires a community approach, including healthy providers and community groups, rather than leaving it to children and their families.

For full survey results, go to The California Endowment: www.calendow.org/caobesityattitudes/index.htm

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