GUEST OPINION: ARIZONA WINNING BATTLE AGAINST OBESITY

November 3, 2004
SUSAN FINN
For the Tucson Citizen

In the wake of our fast-paced political season, let's not forget a race of another sort - the campaign against obesity. If that race were held today, Arizona would be a winner.

Over the past year, Arizona schools, communities and citizens have stepped up to help build a healthier future. With nearly 18 percent of Arizona citizens overweight or obese and 75 percent not exercising at recommended levels, swift and decisive action was in order. And that's exactly what is happening.

Reversing obesity demands that we dig deep to increase physical activity and embrace good nutrition in communities, schools and families.

For our children, high-quality, daily physical educations builds the foundation for healthy lifelong habits and helps curb obesity today.

Arizona should be proud of 12 schools and youth organizations that have been awarded $3.74 million in grants from the U.S. Department of Education.

The Carol M. White Physical Education for Progress (PEP) grants help pay to develop or expand physical education programs in kindergarten through 12th grade.

An equally important step to combat obesity is implementation of policies that prevent, diagnose and treat obesity.

This includes increased funding for programs like PEP so more communities can launch their own initiatives, as have grant winners in Tucson, Flagstaff and Tempe, to name a few.

At the federal level, Arizona congressmen Raúl Grijalva and Ed Pastor are sponsors of bi-partisan legislation that tackles both sides of the weight loss equation by addressing means to increase physical activity and improve nutrition, particularly among children.

The "Improved Nutrition and Physical Activity Act" (IMPACT) authorizes funds for community groups that have demonstrated effectiveness in curbing obesity and eating disorders, empowers states to use federal funds for improved nutrition and increased physical activity, and paves the way for more health professionals to diagnose, treat and prevent obesity.

But perhaps the most effective anti-obesity efforts come from the ground up. People who commit to a healthier life and communities that develop customized approaches to fit their own cultural, environmental and economic circumstances increase the chance of positive results for the long run.

Teamwork and competition propel participants in Lighten Up Arizona to move more. This five-month, statewide, adult competition started in June and ends Nov. 12.

Lighten Up encourages Arizonans to develop healthy activity routines and nutritious eating habits. Arizonans formed teams of two to 10 people, then pursued personal goals with community support.

In the battle for a healthier future, Arizona has a lot of cause for pride. Across the state, individuals, schools, communities and the government are taking the initiative to create a healthy balance for life.

Susan Finn, Ph.D., is chairwoman of the American Council for Fitness and Nutrition, a director in Ohio State University's nutrition department and past president of the American Dietetic Association.