Extension

 

Childhood obesity is more complicated than eating too much candy or not getting enough exercise. It is a complex disease with many contributing factors, including genetics, eating patterns, sleep routines, physical activity and even location. 

 

Deana Hildebrand, Community Health Program leader for Oklahoma State University Extension, said one in five American children have obesity. 

 

“The United States has the highest level of childhood obesity than any other country in the world,” Hildebrand said. “Children with obesity are at higher risk for health problems such as asthma, type 2 diabetes, sleep apnea, bone and joint issues, as well as risk factors for heart disease such as high blood pressure.”

 

Each day people make choices that impact their health. While these choices are often framed as personal responsibility, they’re more often influenced by local and unique community and social conditions or stressors outside of personal control. Hildebrand said stressors may include low access to affordable and healthy foods, few opportunities for physical activity and dwindling healthcare options.

 

“When community and social stressors go unaddressed, health disparities that often describe Oklahoma, create a spiral of detrimental health outcomes,” she said.

 

Oklahoma’s overall health ranking in 2019 was 46th in the United States. Nearly one in three children in Oklahoma live in households that can’t always afford to eat good, nutritious meals, and 19% of the state’s youngest population is food insecure. In addition, only 20% of children reside in households that agree a large selection of high-quality fresh fruits and vegetables are available in their neighborhood.

 

“Oftentimes, obesity isn’t necessarily about what you eat or don’t eat – but understanding that where these families live has an impact,” she said. “Many children live in areas without parks or playgrounds where they can burn energy and calories. Only about 25% of Oklahoma children live in neighborhoods with a recreation or community center. Just over 55% of children live in areas with sidewalks or walking paths. These factors impact childhood obesity.”

 

OSU Extension has programming aimed at addressing childhood obesity. In the fall of 2023, OSU Extension launched the Community Health Program for which Hildebrand serves as state lead. “Health disparities are complex issues that need to be addressed at multiple levels within a community,” Hildebrand said. “Extension’s community health team will work with community organizations to address local issues impacting health.”

 

The High Obesity Program, funded through the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, serves residents in 10 counties across Oklahoma with community projects that improve access to healthy food and safe places for physical activity. HOP is a multi-faceted program that supports nutrition knowledge and how to increase physical activity, and advocates for infrastructure improvements that support a healthier lifestyle.