National data on nutrition and children has focused on obesity, anemia, added sugar and quality of diets (servings of fruits, vegetables and whole grains). Concern about the data have prompted many programs and activities across the country to develop effective interventions that range from legislative action to education, to increased emphasis on physical activity programs for children. Legislative action has included use of "healthy" choices in vending machines in schools, taxing of "junk" food, labeling of calories and fat on fast food menu boards, and increased hours for physical activity in school programs. In order to develop an advocacy program on nutrition and children in Massachusetts, the Food and Nutrition Section of the Massachusetts Public Health Association (MPHA), along with its many collaborators have reviewed the national data, contacted groups around the country who have worked on legislative action, and identified sources of data on nutritional status in Massachusetts. The report on the status of nutrition and children in Massachusetts is not comprehensive but it is instructive in helping identify areas of concern and possible areas of intervention. This report has been developed primarily for the state legislators and identifies budgetary issues that impact the nutritional health of our children. The report served in the development of a media package to the general public and administrators of health programs. These efforts are being used to develop a legislative advocacy plan plus educational conferences that will provide practical information to parents, teachers, child-care providers, and food service administrators.
Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of the session, the participant (learner) in this session will be able to: 1. Define what types of data about school aged nutritional issues are available at the state and national levels; 2. Develop a state-wide problem and policy statement on nutrition and physical activity affecting school aged children based on a case study in Massachusetts; 3. Organize legislative and media advocacy campaigns around the policy statement; and 4. Articulate the use of public health law and behavior change
Keywords: Adolescent Health, Nutrition
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: Massachusetts Public Health Association (MPHA)
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.