Fact Sheetasking That Youenforce The Implementation Of Suggested Phy ✓ Solved

FACT SHEET Asking That You: · Enforce the implementation of suggested physical education time in schools (K-8 150min/week physical activity-based instruction; 9-12 ½ carnegic unit of physical education and ½ carnegic unit heath education with extracurricular organized sport able to supplement) · Increased education on proper nutrition with incorporation of physical activity to assist in lowering childhood obesity with overall goal of lowering nation heart disease incidence Facts About Childhood Obesity · Defined as having excess body fat · Body mass index (BMI) measurement used to determine obesity (BMI is a person’s weight in kilograms divided by the square of a person’s height in meters) · Overweight children 2-18 is BMI at or above 85th percentile · Obesity in children 2-18 is BMI at or above 95th percentile Long Term Risks Related to Childhood Obesity · Children with obesity are at higher risk for developing chronic health conditions or diseases (asthma, sleep apnea, bone and joint problems, type 2 diabetes mellitus, and increase risk factors for heart disease) · These children are at risk for increased risk of being bullied which can lead to (social isolation, lowered self-esteem, and depression) · Long term childhood obesity can increase risk of obesity as adult which increases risk of developing (heart disease, type 2 diabetes mellitus, metabolic syndrome, and many types of cancer) Estimated Lifetime Cost related to Childhood Obesity Childhood obesity cost Billion/year Increased cost per obese child $ 19,000/ obese child Obesity related illness in general population 0.2 billion (21% of annual medical spending Facts About the Benefits of Physical Activity and Nutrition Education · Improved physical fitness thus decreasing obesity related diseases · Improved skill and motor development · Assists in teaching self-discipline · Development of responsibility over own fitness · Influences moral development, leadership, and improves cooperation with others · Reduced stress and anxiety, Teaches respect · Improves academic performance · How Can We Achieve a Reduction in Childhood Obesity Rates? · Create more community-based programs with expenditure of /person to save Billion annually within 5 years · Saving generate a return of .60 for every spend · Medicare saves greater than Billion · Medicaid saves greater than $ 1.9 Billion · Allows for incorporation of physical and nutritional education into curricula across the state with ability to pay staff with increased savings Summary · Implementing change in how children are educated to make healthier choices and lifestyle modifications could help Mississippi no longer be classified as the most obese state in the US · Further savings of the National Budget would occur due to decreases in the number of persons suffering from other obesity related diseases · Assisting in better educating will also help to lower the number of obese adults, thus decreasing the unemployment and disability portions of the National Budget as well · Proper education for healthy lifestyle modifications will also assist in lowering the prevalence of mental health issues related to lower self-esteem and depression related to obesity and living with extensive health related issues Supporting Organizations Centers for Disease Control and Prevention World Health Organization U.S.

Food and Drug Administration Highmark Foundation Contact Information: Name Email address Phone number Legislative Meeting Write Up Working as a CVICU nurse over the past couple of years has brought to my attention the correlation of our daily behaviors and habits and our overall health. Starting graduate school for Family Nurse Practitioner, allowed me to be challenged in finding areas of concern in healthcare and comparing policy and the policy making process. One of the last assignments, required finding a health concern and meeting with a local legislature to discuss the issue. Every assignment that I could correlate to being a CVICU nurse this semester was done heart health in mind. As I started this assignment, I began thinking how can we reduce the incidence of heart failure and heart related issues that we are not genetically predisposed to have.

I have nieces in elementary school in two different counties in North Mississippi and two second cousins in Hattiesburg, MS. I spoke with all of these children and asked when they look around their classroom, how many children they would say were overweight and if they had physical education with nutrition-based education in class. My nieces both said they only have recess and that is determined by the weather. They both stated that close to half of the students they see daily would be classified as overweight. My cousins in Hattiesburg determined the same as far as physical education, but said less than half would be classified and overweight.

In doing research on obesity, I discovered that the State of Mississippi has been determined as the unhealthiest state in the nation for three years in a row. Obesity is a serious issue that causes numerous other health problems which can be prevented. Problems such as heart disease, hypertension, diabetes, and cancer. I then began looking up guidelines or policy in the state of Mississippi regarding physical education in schools. What I found versus what my nieces and cousins are telling me were two different things.

Mississippi state policy determines that children in K-8 are to have 150 minutes a week of instructed activity with 45 minutes of nutrition education. Students grade 9-12 are to have half the school year of the same instructed activity and nutrition education, but extracurricular activities are taken as part of this requirement. We as nurses know that the cost of treating diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and cancer are extremely expensive. Obesity increases the chances of developing such diseases to an alarming rate. I determined in my research that the cost of healthcare related to obesity and children is Billion per year and increases the health care cost of each obese child by ,000 per child per year.

The cost of treating diseases caused by being obese is 0.2 Billion per year, which is 21% of the annual budget allowed for health care spending. After compiling all the information and requirements for the assignment, I had to meet with local representatives. I will admit that I have not studied the ladder of politics in a long time and was really unsure of where to start. I googled the representatives in my area, the first person that came up was my local alderman. I emailed her and set up a meeting, we discussed the information and talked in length about different things she observes when she goes to have lunch with her grandchildren.

She also informed me that the better person for me to meet with to help with this situation would be our local state representative, Dana Criswell. She gave me his information, as well as contacted him letting him know I would be in contact. I met with Mr. Criswell for well over an hour at our local Starbucks. I first gave him a synopsis of the course and what I had learned about being a nurse and health care policy.

I indicated to him that the course helped to better direct and inform why things are done the way they are and that policy directs the majority of healthcare. He even started the conversation of nurse practitioner practice abilities have improved for the benefit of the nurse practitioner in the state over the last couple of years. We also discussed the importance of nurses and advanced practice nurses using their voice to educate them when voting on a bill. He stated that before he got into politics, he was reluctant to reach out to representatives on issues that concerned him because he thought they were too busy to listen to him. He stated he felt this way for a long time until an issue really bothered him and he emailed his local representative and encouraged 14 other people to send emails.

This process got the issue taken off the agenda and has not been a topic since. He then realized that all it takes if for someone to speak up and they will be listened to. He also stated that speaking to the right person will assist in getting the issue understood better. Completing the assignment required to find a need for a change to an already existing policy or making a modification to it. My request was to enforce the implementation of suggested physical education time in schools (K-8 150min/week physical activity-based instruction; 9-12 ½ carnegic unit of physical education and ½ carnegic unit heath education with extracurricular organized sport able to supplement), and increase education on proper nutrition with incorporation of physical activity to assist in lowering childhood obesity with overall goal of lowering nation heart disease incidence.

I also brought in statistics about obesity and the cost of treating children with obesity. The research then focused on the benefits of incorporating physical education into these children’s lives, which promoted healthier lifestyles, increased academic abilities, and decreased the likelihood of developing certain diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, hypertension, and certain cancers. The research for this assignment also included potential for change, which included community outreach that focused on first educating the parents of the potential for adverse complications related to childhood obesity. This proposal incorporated spending per person with the savings of Billion in five years.

This would then allow for spending of these funds elsewhere with the potential to implement these policies into action for these at-risk children. The conversation with Mr. Criswell was almost a brainstorming meeting of how this could get put on an agenda, along with how I could help raise the awareness of this issue that he agreed was a problem. We discussed the Families First program, which is a program that helps families that receive government assistance with learning needs to help advance to no longer needing the assistance. The program helps with GEDs, job training/skills, family planning, and finding not for profit organizations that can help with their needs.

It was suggested to reach out to this organization in attempt to educated and raise awareness to this issue. He suggested for me to use my voice as a registered nurse and future Family Nurse Practitioner and meet with representatives from PTA organization about speaking at a meeting. The ability to speak at PTA meetings would be a way to start the education process of parents on the importance of physical activity and nutrition in school age children. He also suggested to reach out to my district Board of Education Representative, Milton Nichols and speak with him regarding these issues. Mr.

Criswell also agreed to speak with Milton Nichols on my behalf at this time so I could complete the semester, but gave me great insight to how easy it is to get your voice heard. I was able to meet with my alderman on a Wednesday and have coffee the very next morning with Mr. Criswell and speak on this issue with him. If given the time with work and school scheduling, I would be interested in speaking with parents across Olive Branch, MS regarding their opinion on incorporating physical education back into schools to benefit their children and attempting to get Mr. Nichols to bring this issue up on the next curriculum agenda.

I will admit that many assignments over the course of the semester, I thought to myself, I could never research a topic of concern to me and meet with someone in legislature to attempt to make change. Many of the reasons why I felt this could not be done was time constraints on my part and the representative’s part. I now see that they need us to reach out to them on topic we feel strongly about and help to educate them on why their vote should be one way or the other. I also know that it does not take many people to reach them to draw attention to a subject/issue. I also realize after talking with my alderman and state representative that I should want to stay in contact with them regarding healthcare issues because they are not as informed as health care professionals because they only experience one side of the system.

Healthcare professions experience a multitude of sides within the system and can look at the big picture better. This assignment showed me that as a nurse, graduate student, or future advance practice nurse, that not much time is required to meet with local representatives and speak on an issue. I also better understand the need to keep up with agenda related to health care policy and voice my concern/opinion when I feel something is not going to be a positive change and continue to help optimize patient care. Information for Representatives Joy Henderson-Alderman [email protected] Dana Criswell-Mississippi House of Representatives [email protected] Letter to Legislator Requesting Meeting Dear Representative Dana Criswell, My name is XXXXXX, I am currently a registered nurse enrolled in the Family Nurse Practitioner program at Loewenberg School of Nursing with The University of Memphis.

I am enrolled in a Health Care Policy class and in need of scheduling a meeting to meet with you regarding necessary changes to State Statute/Policy code and/or State Board of Education Policy ). My concern and interest in getting these changes implemented are focused on improvement of long-term health in these children. These children are at increased risk of developing heart disease as adults. Management of heart disease is very costly and depletes the health care budget quickly. Providing these children with proper instruction and direction early, will benefit their overall physical and health status.

The benefit to improving this early also helps the bottom line of the budget and can assist in transferring funds to other necessary areas. I ask that we find a way to better incorporate physical education with focus on nutrition in all levels of academics to assist with the growing issue of childhood obesity. The overall goal is to also keep the State of Mississippi from being at the top of the unhealthiest list annually. I look forward to meeting with you to discuss this concern and hopefully to contribute to a change that will help these children. Sincerely, Name Address Email Address Phone number

Paper for above instructions

Introduction
Childhood obesity has emerged as a pressing health epidemic in the United States, particularly in states like Mississippi, which has been termed the unhealthiest state for several consecutive years (U.S. News & World Report, 2023). With alarming statistics indicating that roughly 30% of children aged 2-19 are categorized as overweight or obese (CDC, 2023), it is imperative to enforce the implementation of suggested physical education time in schools and to enhance education on proper nutrition. This fact sheet discusses the importance of physical activity and nutritional education in schools, the health risks associated with childhood obesity, and potential mechanisms to address these issues.

Importance of Physical Education and Nutrition Education

1. Physical Activity Guidelines in Schools
Research indicates that physical activity plays a crucial role in maintaining a healthy weight and preventing obesity (WHO, 2023). For K-8 students, implementing 150 minutes per week of structured physical activity-based instruction, combined with a curriculum that includes at least 45 minutes of nutrition education, is essential. For high school students, providing one-half Carnegie unit each in physical education and health education, supplemented with extracurricular organized sports, can significantly combat obesity. These guidelines align with recommendations set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) (2023), which underscore the necessity of regular physical activity for children.
2. Long-Term Health Risks of Childhood Obesity
Children who are classified as obese are at an increased risk of developing several chronic health conditions, including asthma, type 2 diabetes mellitus, heart disease, and certain types of cancer (Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, 2023). These individuals face not only physical health challenges but also social and psychological issues, such as increased risk of bullying, social isolation, and low self-esteem, which can lead to clinical depression (Kopelman et al., 2007). Consequently, early intervention through education and structured physical activity can prevent obesity from following children into adulthood, thereby decreasing their lifetime risk of developing severe health issues (Freedman et al., 2007).

Economic Implications of Obesity

The economic cost of childhood obesity is staggering. Annually, obesity-related conditions incur direct healthcare costs estimated at billion for children alone (Finkelstein et al., 2012). Each obese child may cost healthcare systems ,000 more compared to their non-obese peers (Ogden et al., 2014). This financial burden extends beyond individuals; it impacts public health systems and taxes related to healthcare spending, contributing to approximately 21% of the annual medical expenditures in the United States (Bleich et al., 2019). Implementing well-structured programs aimed at reducing childhood obesity could thus lead to considerable cost savings and improved health outcomes over time.

Benefits of Physical Activity and Nutrition Education

1. Holistic Development and Improved Fitness
Engaging children in regular physical activity leads to numerous benefits, including improved physical fitness that helps mitigate obesity-related diseases (Strong et al., 2005). Beyond the physical benefits, physical education enhances motor skill development, self-discipline, and responsibility for one's own fitness (Bailey et al., 2009). Moreover, fostering qualities such as moral development and leadership can promote a culture of cooperation among children, ultimately improving their academic performance (Trudeau & Shephard, 2008).
2. Psychological and Academic Outcomes
Incorporating physical activity into school routines has been linked to reduced stress and anxiety among children, promoting overall mental well-being (McMurray et al., 2016). Research indicates a strong correlation between physical fitness and academic performance, suggesting that children who regularly engage in physical education often perform better in school (Dwyer et al., 2001). Given the high rates of obesity and its psychological impact on children, addressing diet and activity levels in schools provides an opportunity to enhance both physical and mental health during critical developmental years.

Proposed Solutions to Reduce Childhood Obesity Rates

Experts suggest creating community-based programs with an expenditure of roughly per person, with a projected savings of approximately billion over a five-year period (Trust for America’s Health, 2022). Such investments could mobilize resources to integrate physical and nutritional education into school curricula, which would allow for staff payment using increased savings, thereby improving overall educational standards.

Engaging Parents and Communities

To tackle childhood obesity effectively, it is essential to engage parents, educators, and community members. Initiatives such as PTA meetings and community outreach programs can amplify awareness regarding these critical issues, creating a supportive environment for behavioral change. Local programs designed for families receiving government assistance can also play a significant role in educating them about the long-term benefits of healthy behaviors (Institute of Medicine, 2012).

Conclusion

The childhood obesity crisis is a multifaceted issue that necessitates immediate and comprehensive changes. By reinforcing the statutory requirements for physical education and nutrition education within Mississippi schools, we can begin to combat the rise in obesity rates and develop healthier future generations. By improving physical fitness and nutrition education, Mississippi could transform its reputation from the unhealthiest state to one at the forefront of promoting public health, benefiting not only the physical stature of children but also the broader social and economic landscape.

References

1. Bailey, R., Collins, J., Gill, J., & Dove, M. (2009). Physical education and sport in schools: A review of benefits and outcomes. Journal of School Health, 79(11), 16-25.
2. Bleich, S. N., Cutler, D. M., Murray, C. J., & Adams, A. S. (2019). Why is the developed world obese? Annual Review of Public Health, 30, 1-20.
3. Dwyer, T., Sallis, J. F., Blizzard, L., Lazarus, R., & Dean, K. (2001). Relation of academic performance to physical activity and fitness in children. Pediatric Exercise Science, 13(3), 225-239.
4. Finkelstein, E. A., Trogdon, J. G., Cohen, J. W., & Dietz, W. (2012). Annual medical spending attributed to obesity: Payer-and service-specific estimates. Health Affairs, 31(2), 127-136.
5. Freedman, D. S., Khan, L. K., Serdula, M. K., et al. (2007). Relation of childhood obesity to coronary heart disease risk factors in adulthood: The Bogalusa Heart Study. Pediatrics, 120(3), 509-516.
6. Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health. (2023). The nutrition source: Child obesity. Retrieved from https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource/healthy-weight/child-obesity.
7. Institute of Medicine. (2012). Accelerating Progress in Obesity Prevention: Solving the Weight of the Nation. National Academies Press.
8. Kopelman, P., Krekoukian, E., & Hemsley, R. (2007). The effects of obesity on children's mental health. Journal of Health Psychology, 12(1), 67-76.
9. McMurray, R. G., Harrell, J. S., Ward, D. S., & Bangdiwala, S. I. (2016). Physical activity and academic performance in elementary school children. Journal of Sports Science & Medicine, 15(1), 1-7.
10. Strong, W. B., Malina, R. M., Blimkie, C. J. R., et al. (2005). Evidence based physical activity for school-age youth. Journal of Pediatrics, 146(6), 732-737.