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Study Suggests Drop In Preschoolers' Obesity Rate

By Kamal Nayan | Update Date: Feb 26, 2014 09:46 AM EST

Obesity rates for U.S. children between ages two and five has drastically dropped, according to recent report. 

In 2003, obesity prevalence was recorded to be nearly 14 percent which dropped to above 8 percent in 2012. Overall the changes in the rates would represent a total 43 percent drop, said a report form U.S. Department of Health and Human Services 

"We continue to see signs that, for some children in this country, the scales are tipping. This report comes on the heels of previous CDC data that found a significant decline in obesity prevalence among low-income children aged 2 to 4 years participating in federal nutrition programs," CDC Director Tom Frieden, M.D., M.P.H. said, via a press release. 

 "We've also seen signs from communities around the country with obesity prevention programs including Anchorage, Alaska, Philadelphia, New York City and King County, Washington. This confirms that at least for kids, we can turn the tide and begin to reverse the obesity epidemic."

Researchers, however mentioned that the exact cause of the drop was unknown. Though several factors might have contributed. For instance, recently the child care centers have been actively working to improve the healthfulness of the meal plans. In addition they are also encouraging kids to participate in the physical activities. 

Recently a report from CDC also noted that the rate of soda consumption among youths had dropped in previous years.

"I am thrilled at the progress we've made over the last few years in obesity rates among our youngest Americans," Michelle Obama, First Lady of the United States of America, said, according to the news release. "With the participation of kids, parents, and communities in Let's Move! these last four years,  healthier habits are beginning to become the new norm."

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