- In 2007-2008, one-quarter of all children aged between 5 and 17 were overweight or obese. That’s up four percentage points from 1995. In relation to obesity, the rate for children increased from 5.2% to 7.5% in 2007-2008.
- Childhood obesity in Australia is increasing at an alarming rate and has greatly increased in the past few years.
- 1.5 Million people under the age of 18 are considered overweight or obese.
- The amount of aerobic fitness is decreasing about .4% per year.
- Between 1985 and 1997, the obesity level in the population doubled. While obesity increased 2-4 times, being overweight increased 60-70%
- If weight gain continues, 80% of all Australian Adults and one-third of all Australian Children will be overweight or obese.
- 50% of obese adolescents continue to be obese as adults.
- Once children become obese, they are more likely to stay obese into adulthood and have increased risk of diabetes and cardiovascular disease.