WHEREAS, Additionally, childhood obesity can lead to serious
health problems such as heart disease, Type 2 diabetes, asthma,
sleep problems and low self-esteem; and
WHEREAS, Regular physical activity can produce long-term
health benefits; and
WHEREAS, The number of health club members who are under 18
years of age has increased 33% in Pennsylvania and 60%
nationally; and
WHEREAS, According to the Physical Activity Guidelines for
Americans report issued by the United States Department of
Health and Human Services, children and adolescents benefit from
at least 60 minutes of physical activity daily through a
combination of aerobic, muscle strengthening and bone
strengthening activities; and
WHEREAS, Health benefits for children and adolescents
associated with regular physical activity include improved
respiratory and muscular fitness, improved bone health,
favorable body composition, reduced symptoms of depression and
improved academic performance; and
WHEREAS, Obesity and physical inactivity are not just limited
to an individual, but are directly linked to increasing public
and private health care costs; and
WHEREAS, Nationally, 75% of health care expenditures go
toward the diagnosis and treatment of chronic diseases, many of
which have been linked to obesity and physical inactivity; and
WHEREAS, Pennsylvania has some of the highest health care
costs, ranking 11 out of 51 in health care spending per capita;
and
WHEREAS, Less than 20% of Pennsylvania youth meet recommended
levels of aerobic and muscle strengthening physical activity;
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