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The percentage of overweight children in the U.S. has doubled since 1980, corresponding to a decrease in physical activity.

Executive Summary: Results from the 1999 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) indicate that about 13% of 6- to 11-year-olds and 14% of 12- to 19-year- olds are overweight. This represents a 2-3% increase from the previous survey conducted from 1988 to 1994 and a doubling of the percentage of overweight children and youth since 1980. The survey involved a household interview and a physical examination, but further annual surveys will be conducted to confirm these findings. Source: "Prevalence of Overweight Among Children and Adolescents: United States, 1999." View PDF file

Web: www.cdc.gov

U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
National Center for Health Statistics

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