Childhood Obesity Declines in Connecticut
Hartford Mayor Luke Bronin and the University of Connecticut (UConn) Health Husky Nutrition Evaluation Team led by Professor Ann Ferris released a report showing that between 2012 and 2016, the percentage of overweight or obese children enrolled in Hartford early childcare programs decreased by 5 percent, and the average body mass percentile decreased by more than 4 percent, thanks in part to a series of initiatives by the City of Hartford, UConn, and community partners. Funding for the health evaluations and City initiatives came from various state and federal grants.
“We know that weight is a leading indicator of long-term health, and that’s why it’s so important that our youngest children begin their lives with good eating and exercise habits,” said Mayor Bronin. “Our childhood obesity rate is still too high, but we now have a road map for how to make progress. I am grateful to Professor Ann Ferris, her team at UConn Health, and the many, many City staff members and community partners whose dedication led to the important gains we’ve made to reduce childhood obesity.”