Prevalence of Childhood Obesity 2005
Prevalence of Childhood Obesity 2005
The prevalence of childhood obesity for 128 cities and communities in Los Angeles County are presented in Figure 1. The prevalence of childhood obesity varied significantly among cities and communities, from a low of 4% in Manhattan Beach to a high of 37% in Maywood, and was found to be strongly associated with economic hardship. The County Health Department found a higher prevalence of obesity in cities or communities where the economic burden (higher poverty, lower educational attainment, more dependents, etc.) was greater compared to other cities and communities in the county of Los Angeles. (Correlation coefficient = 0.83; p-value < 0.001.)
Cities with less open area set aside as parks, recreational area, or wilderness area were more likely to have a higher prevalence of children who are obese. (Correlation coefficient = -0.47; p-value < 0.001.) Source: Los Angeles County Department of Public Health, Office of Health Assessment and Epidemiology, Preventing Childhood Obesity: the need to create healthy places. A Cities and Communities Health Report. October 2007.
The county report ignores significant health disparities based on race and ethnicity. Latino and black children are disproportionately overweight and unfit compared to non-Hispanic white and Asian children.
Overweight and Unfit Children in California
Race/Ethnicity…….Overweight…Unfit
Latino………………….34%…………45%
AfricanAmerican…29%…………46%
White………………….20%………..34%
Asian………………….18% ………..36%
Source: California Center for Public Health Advocacy, An Epidemic: Overweight and Unfit Children in California Assembly Districts (Dec. 2002).
Children of color living in poverty with no access to a car have the highest levels of child obesity, and the worst access to parks and school fields, as shown in studies by The City Project.
