LONDON and WASHINGTON – France and the US report signs of a levelling off in the prevalence of childhood obesity in their countries, say new reports. In France, the number of overweight children is holding steady, and the problem remains worse among the poorest children. In this population, obesity rates are up to three times higher compared to the highest socioeconomic group. The research does not explain why the prevalence may be levelling off, but the change comes after the introduction in 2001 of a National Nutrition and Health Programme that includes a comprehensive package of obesity-fighting public health initiatives. An increased awareness of the issue of childhood obesity may have had some impact. As well, France has banned vending machines in schools since 2005.

The prevalence of childhood obesity in France is among the lowest in Europe, but it has been increasing in recent years. Overweight rates have been rising faster in children than in adults for the last three decades.

In the US, a similar trend has appeared. There appears to be a levelling off after 20 years of steady increases. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports in the Journal of the American Medical Association that obesity rates remained unchanged among children ages 2 to 19 from 1999 to 2006; 32 percent were overweight, 16 percent obese and 11 percent were extremely obese.

Changes in diet – more fatty and sugary foods, snacks, processed food and beverages, and fewer fresh fruits and vegetables – coupled with less exercise have fuel the trend. Many children also have become more sedentary, watching more TV, playing video games and getting less exercise.

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