State and Local Strategies

The obesity epidemic has no single or simple solution. It’s a complex problem that requires a multifaceted approach. Policy makers; state and local organizations; business, school and community leaders; childcare and healthcare professionals; and individuals must work together to create an environment that supports healthy lifestyles.

State and Local Programs

Two priority strategies for state and local programs are implementing early care and education (ECE) policies and family healthy weight programs. For background information, potential activities, resources, and examples of what others are doing, see:

• Improve nutrition, physical activity, and breastfeeding in ECE settings.
• Implement, spread, and sustain Family Healthy Weight Programs.

Also see:

• Advancing Farm to ECE
• Spectrum of Opportunities for Obesity Prevention in Early Care and Education Settings
• Family Healthy Weight Programs

Community Efforts

To reverse the obesity epidemic, community efforts should focus on supporting healthy eating and active living in a variety of settings. Learn about different efforts that can be used in early childhood care, hospitals, schools, and food service venues.

See Healthy Weight, Nutrition, and Physical Activity for what individuals can do to achieve and maintain a healthy weight.