Obesity among low-income children (ages 2-4 years) enrolled in WIC dropped from 15.9% in 2010 to 14.5% in 2014. In addition, 34 of 56 WIC state agencies reported modest decreases in obesity among young children. The findings come from a joint study by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the USDA. Obesity prevalence varied by state, ranging from 8.2% in Utah to 20% in Virginia. The study’s authors noted several factors that may have contributed to the drop in obesity:
- In 2009, USDA redesigned WIC food packages to align with updated U.S. dietary guidelines. This change led to improved dietary quality of WIC food packages, better nutrition education, and more health care referrals.
- National, state, and local childhood obesity programs helped raise awareness among parents, early care and education providers, community and business leaders, health care providers, and public health officials.
- CDC provided funding, training, and guidance to states, local health agencies, and daycare providers to help promote successful childhood obesity prevention strategies.
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