Health systems are typically made up of a variety of healthcare providers, insurance plans, delivery systems, and information technologies. These groups can all play a role in children's healthy growth and the prevention and management of obesity. Learn more about CDC's work to reduce childhood obesity in healthcare settings Cdc-pdf[PDF-2.0MB].
A collective approach to our nation's high levels of childhood obesity will require prevention and care management options delivered in community venues, clinics, and hospital-based settings.
Health systems can address childhood obesity through the implementation of best practice guidelines complemented by community- based resources, programs and policies that foster behavioral management strategies that aid children's diet, physical activity, sleep, stress and wellbeing.
In 2017, the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force provided a Grade B recommendation that providers screen children aged 6 years or older for obesity, and provide or refer children with obesity to intensive lifestyle modification programs. Learn moreExternal.
In 2007 the American Academy of Pediatrics released the Expert Committee Recommendations that suggest screening all children for obesity (>=2 years) and providing tiers of care regarding the treatment and prevention of obesity. Learn moreExternal.
The links below provide information on developing community-clinical collaborations to address obesity.
CDC provides downloadable clinical growth charts for children.
Body mass index (BMI) data from measured height and weight data captured in Electronic Health Records (EHR) can benefit patient care such as screening, group practice quality improvement efforts, and can be a valuable resource for health system and public health to support population health activities.