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Browsing by Author "Stark, Aaron E."

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    Childhood Obesity: Evaluating the Causes and Proposed Solutions of a Global Epidemic
    Ramesh, Sowmya; Vitko, Veronica S.; Stark, Aaron E.; Riisager, Ian F. (Virginia Governor's School for Agriculture, 2024-07-20)
    Childhood obesity has become a pressing issue in modern society. Obesity rates have doubled in the last 30 years, impacting the health and well-being of our youngest generation at an alarming rate. We explored factors regarding the multi-faceted causes of childhood obesity, previously implemented solutions, and potentially effective strategies to mitigate this issue. A non-systematic literature review explores factors contributing to the increase in childhood obesity while concurrently evaluating solutions that emphasize diverse stakeholders. We conducted this literature review in alignment with the United Nations (UN) Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of Zero Hunger (2), Good Health and Well-Being (3) and the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) Topic of Food and Nutrition Security. Traditional diet norms and societal perceptions of body image significantly influence children's eating habits and physical activity levels. Access to affordable, nutritious food is pivotal, particularly for underprivileged families who often face barriers to purchasing healthy options. In addition, sedentary lifestyles further fuel the high prevalence of obesity among children. Addressing this wicked problem demands a well-rounded strategy to engage diverse stakeholders. Effective strategies include social marketing campaigns to reshape societal perceptions of nutrition and deter children from a sedentary lifestyle. Additionally, investing in community infrastructure, such as exercise parks and playgrounds, holds promise in encouraging active lifestyles among children. Combating childhood obesity requires coordinated efforts to tackle its causes and empower families and communities to adopt healthier lifestyles. Through proactive steps in our communities, we can create environments that support healthy development in children.