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Heart Association Honors Students, Schools Fighting Childhood Obesity Crisis

American Heart Association honors 9 students & schools fighting childhood obesity through Kids Heart Challenge programs. Learn how these initiatives reach 10M+ students annually with health education.

This recognition matters because childhood obesity has reached epidemic proportions with severe long-term health consequences, including increased risk of heart disease, diabetes, and reduced life expectancy. The programs being honored address this crisis at its roots by empowering children with practical health knowledge and skills they can carry throughout their lives. With obesity rates climbing 35% since 2000, these school-based initiatives represent a critical frontline defense against a public health emergency that affects millions of families and strains healthcare systems. The emphasis on teaching Hands-Only CPR to children as young as 12 means communities gain more potential lifesavers during cardiac emergencies, while the comprehensive health education helps establish healthy habits early when they're most likely to become lifelong practices.