This talk focuses on a contemporary epidemic in the the United States: childhood and youth obesity. All children and youth should have the right to grow up in a safe, healthy, and supportive environment that affords them the opportunity to have a nutritious diet and healthy active lives. Although obesity is increasing in all ethnic groups, it is even more pronounced in African American and Latino communities. In this presentation Dr. Suarez-Balcazar and Ms. Jones will discuss the findings of a pilot study, particularly the contextual and ecological factors influencing obesity in children in urban environments. They will also address culturally appropriate interventions and directions for future research.
