Breaking the cycle of obesity in young people is probably the most difficult health problem facing our nation today. Fifteen percent, or almost 9 million, of U.S. children are overweight, according to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). I believe that the reason is that more and more young children and teenagers are lazy and are eating fast foods filled with fat. Physical activity has gone from running and jumping as an infant to spending free time hanging out as teenagers, watching television, talking on cell phones, sitting at the computer and playing video games. Schools no longer have mandatory physical education or health programs that provide students with activity and exercise along with information about eating healthy. Thanks to adults who do not understand the consequences, many of our young children and teenagers face the medical problems associated with obesity.
             Healthy lifestyles are critical to the future of our nation. Obesity in young children should be handled in the same manner as the threat of war on our nation. I believe that as a young leader in my school and community, many young children and teenagers are influenced by my actions. Therefore, young leaders need to join together and form organizations that encourage communities to study the effects of budget cuts in physical education classes and classes on healthy eating. Young leaders should also create community sports programs for all populations and campaigns that encourage healthy eating habits. Young leaders need to become involved with educating the young populations on better food choices. If we do not assist in the creation of a healthy society over 9 million young children are faced with health and medical problems that will plague our nation.
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