I am a resident of New Hampshire engaged in the nursing practice. I am writing to bring to your attention to the state of child obesity in New Hampshire. New Hampshire is ranked position 38 out of 51 states in child obesity in the United States as 12.3 % of children in the age group between 10-17 years suffer from this condition (State Obesity.Org, 2020). Besides, 15.8% of the children between the ages of 2 to 4 years suffer from obesity. In this group, New Hampshire is ranked position 8 out of 51 states.
Childhood obesity is a condition in which a child weighs more than what is set for her age or height, caused by bad eating behaviors. Behaviors like eating high-calorie fast foods, low-nutrient foods and beverages, lack of physical activities, medication use, and bad sleeping routines result in this condition.
Watching children`s diet, plus encouraging them to be physically active can help them maintain a healthy weight throughout childhood, which can also help prevent other chronic illness such as type two diabetes, cancer, and heart diseases. Obesity in children is likely to cause high blood pressure and high cholesterol, type 2 diabetes, asthma, musculoskeletal discomfort, gallstones, gastro-esophageal reflux (heartburn), psychological problems such as anxiety or depression, low self-esteem, and social issues such as bullying and stigma. I believe it is an issue of public interest that calls for legislation and public awareness through the Senate.
As our representative, consider introducing some laws and policies, which will enforce schools to watch and monitor the children`s diet. School guidelines should also be drafted to ensure that children participate in physical activities and games. Thank you!
Yours sincerely,
Name