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Sponsored by LSU’s Pennington Biomedical Research Center
Childhood obesity is, unfortunately, reaching epidemic proportions in the United States, and obesity-related metabolic disturbances once seen in adults are now being observed in children and adolescents.
Studies have shown that childhood obesity is a strong predictor of future health outcomes, with maternal health during pregnancy also playing a significant role in a child’s long-term well-being. Childhood obesity increases the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes—a condition that was once rare among adolescents but is now more common and harder to manage than in adults. Additionally, obesity is linked to 13 types of cancer, including breast, colon, and pancreatic cancers. To address these concerning trends, the prevention and management of childhood obesity is a top research priority at the Pennington Biomedical Research Center.
In response, Pennington Biomedical launched an exciting new initiative, Greaux Healthy, 
designed to combat childhood obesity in Louisiana. This initiative, funded by the State of Louisiana, aims to promote healthier lifestyles among children and their families by offering resources, support, and education on nutrition and physical activity. The goal is to create a sustainable impact on the health of Louisiana’s youth, addressing the state’s high rates of childhood obesity.
The timing of this launch is significant as September is National Childhood Obesity Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about the growing issue of childhood obesity. This month serves as a reminder of the importance of preventing obesity early in life, promoting healthy growth, and fostering habits that can last a lifetime.
Greaux Healthy is a comprehensive initiative that emphasizes the importance of community involvement and the role of families in creating healthier environments for children. It includes partnerships with local schools, healthcare providers, and community organizations to ensure that children have access to evidence-based resources and the support they need to maintain a healthy weight.
Greaux Healthy represents more than healthy lifestyle practices. Every product, resource, and tool developed is the result of Pennington Biomedical’s 35-year dedication to obesity research. It’s a scientifically validated roadmap to improve the health of children at every age, to educate every community member, and to help instill proven practices for childhood obesity prevention. The insights and discoveries generated by world-renowned researchers at Pennington Biomedical form the backbone of Greaux Healthy, ensuring that the offerings are not only innovative but also firmly grounded in proven evidence.
With ongoing collaboration, Pennington Biomedical researchers and the Greaux Healthy team are working to help every child grow up healthy and strong, free from the burden of obesity and its related health issues. Join Greaux Healthy in this vital mission by partnering with the team and contributing to its cause. Support of Greaux Healthy can make a lasting impact on the lives of children and families in Louisiana communities. For more information on the Greaux Healthy initiative and how to get involved, visit the official website at greauxhealthy.org.
