Obesity is a health problem that affects 15% of children and teens in the United States. Today there are three times as many obese children and teens as there were 20 years ago.
A group of healthcare professionals, the Children’s Obesity Action Team (COAT), has worked to increase awareness, provide education and resources, pursue innovative research and lead action to decrease childhood obesity since 2002.
COAT is based at Seattle Children’s. In 2006, COAT was recognized by the National Initiative of Children’s Healthcare Quality (NICHQ) as one of the top six national programs addressing childhood obesity.
In the News
This KING 5 TV HealthLink article describes how the Strong Kids Strong Teens Program helps overweight kids make lifestyle changes.
Events
Washington State Childhood Obesity Summit
Seattle Children’s Hospital and the American Heart Association are co-sponsoring the Washington State Childhood Obesity Summit on Friday, Oct. 23, 2009. Policymakers and child health advocates will gather to discuss best practices in obesity prevention and policy. Registration is by invitation only. If you have received an invitation, please register here.