Oral

The breadth of the environmental and policy factors contributing to poor eating habits and sedentary behaviors requires bringing together diverse constituencies to advocate for a broad agenda; in effect building a strong movement for change. The coordination and synergy of efforts could bring about a needed push in changing environments to support good health and wellbeing. This section includes presentations examining various aspects of community obesity prevention programs. Programs discussed include a diabetes prevention program for low-income midlife women and an obesity prevention for children that promotes increased physical activity and healthier eating habits.

Session Objectives: At the end of the session, the participant will be able to: (1) Articulate the importance of an environmental approach to prevent chronic disease; (2) Identify the clinical outcomes that should be measured to assess the effectiveness of a weight loss intervention; (3) Discuss successes and challenges of sustaining obesity prevention programs; (4) Describe a practical framework for the integration of active living and healthy eating promotion through environmental and policy strategies.

CE Credits: CME, Health Education (CHES), Nursing