Childhood obesity has become a major health problem. Approximately 17 percent of U.S. children six to 17 years of age are obese--that is, their sex-and-age-specific Body Mass Index (BMI) is at or above the 95th percentile. This proportion is two-and-a-half times higher than it was 25 years ago. Obesity during childhood often carries into…

The American Cancer Society is initiating an educational program on childhood cancer to (1) inform teachers of the cancer problem, progress and treatment, and detection procedures; (2) facilitate the patient's return into the classroom; and (3) provide general cancer information to school personnel, students, and the public. (MB)

Through their environments, children are exposed to a wide variety of substances that pose a risk to their health. This yearbook provides information to the public on the activities of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to protect children from environmental hazards, including the latest information on the unique threats of environmental…