LightenUp Lancaster County has compiled information concerning healthy eating and activity in a PowerPoint Presentation, which is available for download here. Below are some of the findings:

• Provide a consistent message to families via physician practice, schools, community.
• Encourage proper nutrition including variety,
  portion size Encourage increased activity.

Childhood Obesity

• BMI >99%-Severe Obesity
• BMI >95%-Obesity
• BMI 85-95%-At risk

Overall, the rate of overweight and obesity in children is greater in Lancaster county than the state average

• 15% of US children are considered obese
• 80% will continue into adulthood
• Leads to HTN, CAD, insulin resistance, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, and associated illnesses
• Study done in 2006 shows in several areas, >40% of children have BMI's >85%.

Four Stages of Intervention
Stage 1 - Early Intervention

If BMI 5-85%

• Review Behaviors
• Praise Success
• Discuss areas needing change

BMI is between 85-95%

• Review Risks
• Assess Readiness to Change
• Set Goals

BMI is >95%

• Review Risks
• Assess Readiness to Change
• Set Goals

Stage 2 - Structured Weight Management

• Referral to a dietician or behavioral counselor
• Consider repeat labs if abnormal and schedule follow-up in 6 months

Stage 3 - Multidisciplinary Intervention

• Group program such as Shape Down (many scholarships available)

Stage Four - Tertiary Care Center

Conclusion

• Obesity is a significant health concern facing children in Lancaster County
• As healthcare providers we need to prevent, assess, and intervene
• The protocol developed will provide guidelines to standardize care across LGMG