*Childhood+obesity,+an+epidemic

= Childhood Obesity =

**What is the cause of childhood obesity?** (CDC, 2011)
 * Availability of high sugar drinks and unhealthy foods at schools and at home.
 * Lack of quality physical activity at home and at school.
 * Limited access to affordable healthy foods.
 * Increased portion sizes at meals.
 * Increased time watching TV, using cell phones or computers, and playing video games.

Obesity is caused by a person burning fewer calories than they consume (CDC, 2011). A combination of the environment, genetics, and behavior contribute to obesity (Rogers, 2010). These factors lead to increased calorie intake and reduced physical activity.

**Some Disturbing Statistics**
 * 20% children between the ages of 6 to 11 are obese (CDC, 2011).
 * In 2008 more than one third of all children were overweight (CDC, 2011).