Obesity rates declining, but more education needed
By Canton CitizenDear Editor:
I am a graduate social work student from Bridgewater State University and a Canton resident. As a social work student, I am learning to analyze policies and how they affect individuals and communities.
In 2012, Canton made changes to their school lunches to comply with the state’s new nutritional standards for foods and beverages. Although it is still too soon to measure the success of the changes, it does appear to be a good first step, as the obesity rate in the schools decreased from 31.1 percent in the 2012-2013 school year to 29.4 percent in the 2013-2014 school year.
These changes, in addition to the K-12 curriculum integrating nutrition and physical activity, have helped decrease childhood obesity and I commend the town. However, I think it is important to acknowledge that there are other important factors at play that should be addressed. There are children who bring their lunches and snacks to school, which do not have to comply with the standards, and students are still eating after-school snacks and dinner at home. A next step toward decreasing obesity is to offer education to the students’ families and caregivers about the importance of nutritional eating, portion control, etc.
I know there is a School Wellness Advisory Committee in Canton, and I think they should consider offering educational programs for families outside the classroom to engage in and learn about healthy lifestyle choices. These types of programs will offer sustainable change and empower students and families to make healthy choices.
I would also like to point out that a 2011 study by the medical director of the Massachusetts Department of Public Health found a direct correlation between obesity rates and household income. Therefore, I would also like to see additional resources offered to those families who may not be able to afford nutritious options, such as information about and improved access to the Canton Food Pantry.
Sincerely,
Marissa Levenson
Short URL: https://www.thecantoncitizen.com/?p=28662
Posted by Canton Citizen
on Feb 26 2015. Filed under From One Citizen to Another, Opinion.
Both comments and pings are currently closed.
