Agenda - 12-03-1990 - Laserfiche WebLink

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C 20 CHILDREN It is estimated that Population is in the 5 -19 or 10,796 of these people 18,339 or 20.730 year old range. attend the public of Orange County's Approximately 58,, schools. 1073 or 9.80 of the students attending the public schools in Orange County are known to have a chronic disease or significant health problem. Many of these children have multiple health problems. All these children are served in the public schools with many of them requiring extensive care such as catheterization, physical therapy, blood sugar monitoring, etc. These estimates are lower than the actual statistics since the numbers reported are largely of those students who return health information forms at the beginning of the school year. Many students with health problems do not return health forms and remain unknown to school nurses. In the United States, by the age of 10, 30 -600 of the Population will exhibit at least one risk factor for heart disease. Evidence indicates that children are becoming more sedentary, fatter, and less fit. Childhood obesity is a prevalent and serious nutritional problem in the U.S. affecting 20 -30% of all children. From 1963 -1980, there was a 54% increase in the prevalence of obesity among children ages 6 -11 and 39% rise in obesity among adolescents ages 12- 17. 18.25% of all adolescents in Orange County are obese. In its biannual community diagnosis in 1988, the OCHD identified adolescent obesity as a potential health concern for future intervention. Almost 25% of America's population, including teachers, attend - school daily. Schools could provide an ideal setting for nutrition and fitness education and intervention. Adolescents are particularly vulnerable to poor nutrient intake due to the changes in lifestyle and the increased nutrient needs that occur simultaneously. Increased independence, social activities, busy schedules and pee -r pressure determine what is eaten. Adolescents are particularly conscious of their bodies and concerned about their appearance. Habits developed during adolescence can affect future health. Achieving maximum bone adolescence and in the twenties can reduce the risk -of developing osteoporosis late in life. It is estimated that in the United states 30 -60% of teem_ girls are dieting whether they are overweight or not. Most adolescent dieters do not receive dietary advice from a - professional. They usually follow self - prescribed ,diets. _ -- 17