Iris Joi Hudson, BS, Angela Marie Bulman, BS, Shimia Isaacs, BS, and Shirley Kadoura, BS. School of Public Health Environmental Health Sciences, University of Michigan, 2640 MLK Jr. Dr., Apt 4204, Atlanta, GA 30311, 770-891-1998, ihudson@umich.edu

The 1999-2000 National Health and Examination Survey reports 15.5% of U.S. children ages 12-19 are overweight, indicating a significant increase from 11% in 1988-1994 1. The increase strongly suggests taking action to decrease the rate of childhood overweight. To combat obesity in Ann Arbor public schools (AAPS), four graduate students surveyed vending machines at five middle and three high schools. Students compared number, prices, and nutrient density of vending machine offerings. AAPS students and administration were interviewed concerning their vending machine use. Sixty three percent of vending machine snacks were candy and chips. Beverages were 50% sodas and 8% water; 2 schools offered 100% juice. Three fourths of students purchased regular soda instead of fruit juice or water. Students based choices on taste, then price. Few students indicated health was an influential factor in their choices. Vending machines are in close proximity to cafeterias. Middle school machines are only operational after school; high school machines remain available 24 hours. Teachers and coaches stated concerns about snack costs, long-term health effects of unhealthy snacks and beverages, and hyperactive student behavior attributed to sugary snacks and drinks. Survey results were presented to the AAPS Board of Education and Superintendent. Policies should be established to promote healthy vending machine options. A coalition has been established to formulate such policies.

Learning Objectives: