merica’s children are heavier than ever before, with the number of overweight and obese children doubling in the last two decades. Currently more than 15 percent of 6- to 11-year-olds are overweight.

Along with the extra pounds comes a higher risk of disease, including type 2 diabetes, which is on the rise in children. Overweight children also struggle with mental health issues, including low self-esteem and depression.

The National Association of Children’s Hospitals and Related Institutions (NACHRI) surveyed top pediatric researchers at children’s hospitals across the country and found that many believe the field of obesity and diabetes is not receiving enough attention. That’s why children’s hospitals are leading the way in weight-reduction and healthy lifestyle programs, as well as medical research that may help reduce a child’s risk of being overweight.

Many children’s hospitals offer obesity prevention programs that teach parents and their kids how to develop healthy eating habits, including a healthful approach to food shopping, food preparation and eating out. The programs also teach families how to make physical activity a daily part of life that children enjoy.