[Congressional Record Volume 157, Number 154 (Friday, October 14, 2011)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1882]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




APPLAUDING THE EFFORTS OF THE FLORIDA HOSPITAL FOR CHILDREN TO ADDRESS 
                           CHILDHOOD OBESITY

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                          HON. DANIEL WEBSTER

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                        Friday, October 14, 2011

  Mr. WEBSTER. Mr. Speaker, childhood obesity is on the rise. In 2010, 
17% of children and adolescents, ages 2 to 19, were obese, and 32% were 
overweight. Not only has obesity been linked to an increased risk of 
developing diabetes, asthma, and heart disease, it may also cause our 
children to lead shorter lives. Apart from the serious individual 
health concerns associated with obesity, there are long-term 
consequences that affect society as a whole, including increased 
medical and disability costs and decreased work-force participation.
  To address these concerns, children's hospitals around the nation are 
working to educate families about nutrition and fitness. In Orlando, 
Florida, the Florida Hospital for Children has implemented a program 
called ``Healthy 100 Kids'' at the Walt Disney Pavilion. This program 
seeks to help children live to a healthy 100 years old by providing 
families with medical care, nutrition, and fitness education. There are 
currently 300 families in the program, many of whom are 
underprivileged. In the first year of the program, 60 percent of 
patients reduced their body mass index and lowered their cholesterol by 
eating more fruits and vegetables and lowering their sugar intake. I 
commend the efforts of the Florida Hospital for Children and children's 
hospitals across the nation, and the investment they are making in the 
health and wellbeing of our children, who are the future of America.

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